| Description |
Larval zebrafish (Danio rerio) in most respects excel as an animal model in the study of neural networks, due to their small size and optical transparency. These traits permit optogenetic manipulation and live neuronal imaging of the entire brain, which when paired with behavioral analysis, have potential to link specific CNS circuitry to behavior. These same traits, however, come at a cost of behavioral maturity. By the time most behaviors reach full development, imaging potential has been lost due to diminished zebrafish transparency and increased size. One possible solution to the imaging vs. behavioral-maturity tradeoff exists in a closely related fish genus, Danionella, which retains traits of transparency and small size into adulthood. Our lab seeks to establish the potential utility of Danionella dracula in experimentation. As part of that aim, the goal of this project was to validate a published zebrafish social assay and then apply that assay for the first time to this novel experimental model, Danionella. The assay measures social behavior by observing place preference driven by the sight of conspecifics. Contrary to the results of a prior study, we observed significant social preferences in larval zebrafish as early as 11 days post fertilization (n=8). Application of the assay to adult Danionella failed to reveal any significant social tendency. The results of these experiments suggest 1) that social assays may be of use with Danio rerio at early, imaging-conducive ages, and 2) alterations to or reinvention of the current social assay are required for successful application to Danionella. |
