Zebrafish Shuttle Box
Behavioral testing apparatus for assessing cognitive function and associative learning in zebrafish using dual digital monitors and controlled visual stimuli presentation.
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Director of Science · ConductScience
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Key Specifications
Full details →- Model fit
- Zebrafish
- SKU family
- ME-4857
- Sizing
- 43.2 x 38.0 x 27.9 cm
- Ordering
- Online checkout and quote request available
- Category
- Neuroscience & Surgery
- Build notes
- corrugated plastic, glass
The Zebrafish Shuttle Box is a specialized behavioral testing apparatus designed to assess cognitive function, associative learning, and social behaviors in zebrafish (Danio rerio). The system features a 38-liter experimental tank equipped with dual digital monitors positioned at opposing ends, enabling controlled presentation of visual stimuli to evaluate temporal learning and social response patterns.
The apparatus leverages zebrafish natural shoaling behaviors by presenting animated conspecific groups on digital screens, providing researchers with precise spatial and temporal control over stimulus parameters without requiring live fish as visual cues. The corrugated plastic frame minimizes interference with video tracking while maintaining optimal viewing conditions for both subjects and recording equipment.
How It Works
The Zebrafish Shuttle Box operates on principles of visual stimulus discrimination and spatial preference testing. Digital monitors display animated sequences of conspecific groups, exploiting zebrafish natural tendency to approach and remain near shoaling stimuli. The apparatus measures subject movement patterns and spatial preferences in response to temporally controlled visual cues.
Testing protocols typically involve alternating presentation of stimuli on opposing screens with defined inter-stimulus intervals. The corrugated plastic frame structure minimizes visual interference while maintaining clear stimulus presentation. Behavioral responses are quantified through analysis of time spent in proximity to each screen and movement patterns during stimulus presentation versus baseline periods.
Features & Benefits
frame_width
- 2.5 cm
number_of_screens
- 2
screen_positioning
- symmetrically situated on opposing sides
stimulus_presentation_interval
- 20 seconds
inter_stimulus_interval
- 90 seconds
minimum_cycles
- 30 times
initial_black_screen_duration
- 10 minutes
stimulus_display_duration
- 10 minutes
final_black_screen_duration
- 2 minutes
Behavioral Construct
- Associative Learning
- Spatial Preference
- Social Behavior
- Temporal Learning
- Visual Discrimination
- Memory Formation
Automation Level
- semi-automated
Material
- corrugated plastic
- glass
Capacity
- 38 liters
Species
- Zebrafish
Display Type
- Digital
Dimensions
- 50 cm x 25 cm x 30 cm
Research Domain
- Anxiety and Depression
- Behavioral Pharmacology
- Developmental Biology
- Learning and Memory
- Neuroscience
- Social Behavior
Weight
- 21.0 kg
Dimensions
- L: 43.2 mm
- W: 38.0 mm
- H: 27.9 mm
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tank Volume | 38-liter capacity with 50 × 25 × 30 cm dimensions | Smaller systems often use 10-20 liter tanks with limited swimming space | Larger volume allows for more natural swimming behaviors and reduces stress-related confounding factors. |
| Stimulus Presentation | Dual digital monitors with programmable protocols | Single monitor systems or manual stimulus presentation methods | Bilateral stimulus presentation enables spatial choice testing and eliminates presentation bias. |
| Frame Design | 2.5 cm corrugated plastic frame minimizing video interference | Basic partition systems without video optimization | Specialized frame design maintains stimulus isolation while preserving tracking accuracy. |
| Monitor Integration | Two monitors included with symmetrical positioning | Monitors sold separately requiring custom mounting solutions | Complete system integration reduces setup complexity and ensures optimal stimulus geometry. |
The system combines a spacious 38-liter testing environment with integrated dual digital monitors and video-optimized frame design. The apparatus provides standardized stimulus presentation protocols with configurable timing parameters for comprehensive zebrafish cognitive assessment.
Practical Tips
Verify monitor brightness and contrast settings before each experimental session to ensure consistent visual stimulus intensity.
Why: Display variations can affect zebrafish stimulus response and introduce confounding variables across testing sessions.
Clean the corrugated plastic frame weekly with mild detergent to prevent algae buildup that could affect visual stimulus presentation.
Why: Frame contamination can alter light transmission properties and create visual artifacts during behavioral tracking.
Allow zebrafish to acclimate in the tank for at least 10 minutes before stimulus presentation begins.
Why: Acclimation period reduces stress-related behaviors that could confound cognitive assessment results.
If fish show no response to visual stimuli, verify monitor positioning is symmetrical and check for reflections on tank surfaces.
Why: Asymmetrical placement or surface reflections can create competing visual cues that interfere with stimulus discrimination.
Record baseline movement patterns before stimulus presentation to establish individual subject activity levels.
Why: Baseline activity measurements help distinguish stimulus-specific responses from general locomotor activity variations.
Ensure all electrical components are positioned away from water sources and use appropriate grounding for monitor power supplies.
Why: Water contact with electrical equipment poses safety risks and can damage expensive digital display components.
Use consistent ambient lighting conditions throughout testing sessions to maintain constant visual contrast ratios.
Why: Variable lighting can affect zebrafish visual perception and alter stimulus discrimination performance.
Setup Guide
What’s in the Box
- 38-liter glass experimental tank (50 × 25 × 30 cm)
- Two digital monitors with mounting hardware
- Corrugated plastic frame assembly
- Installation instructions and protocol guide (typical)
- Stimulus presentation software (typical)
Warranty
ConductScience provides a standard one-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, with technical support for setup and protocol development.
Compliance
References
Background reading relevant to this product:
What stimulus presentation protocols are supported by the system?
The apparatus supports configurable protocols with 20-second stimulus presentation intervals, 90-second inter-stimulus intervals, and minimum 30-cycle testing sessions. Standard protocols include 10-minute initial baseline, 10-minute stimulus presentation, and 2-minute final baseline periods.
How does the frame design affect video tracking accuracy?
The 2.5 cm grey corrugated plastic frame is specifically positioned to minimize contact with video recording surfaces while providing stimulus isolation. The design reduces visual artifacts and maintains consistent tracking conditions across experimental sessions.
What water depth and temperature conditions are recommended?
Consult product datasheet for specific water depth recommendations. The 30 cm tank height accommodates various depth settings appropriate for adult zebrafish behavioral testing under standard laboratory temperature conditions.
Can the system accommodate different fish group sizes?
The 38-liter tank volume supports testing of individual subjects or small groups, though specific group size recommendations should be determined based on experimental protocols and animal welfare guidelines.
What type of visual stimuli can be presented on the monitors?
The digital monitors support presentation of animated conspecific groups, static images, or other computer-generated visual cues. Stimulus content is controlled through connected software systems allowing customization for specific experimental requirements.
How is data collected and analyzed from behavioral sessions?
Data collection requires integration with video tracking systems to monitor fish movement and spatial preferences. Analysis typically quantifies time spent near each monitor and movement patterns during stimulus versus baseline periods.
What maintenance is required for the digital monitor components?
Digital monitors require periodic cleaning to maintain display clarity and regular calibration to ensure consistent stimulus presentation. Protect monitors from water exposure and verify display settings before each experimental session.
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