Prey Capture Assay: A Method to Study the Prey Capture Behavior of Zebrafish Larva

Abstract

Source: Muto, A., et al. Ablation of a Neuronal Population Using a Two-photon Laser and Its Assessment Using Calcium Imaging and Behavioral Recording in Zebrafish Larvae.  J. Vis. Exp. (2018)

This video describes the prey capture assay. The video discusses the method to study prey capture behavior of zebrafish larvae after the laser ablation of specific neurons.

Protocol

1. Assessment of Behavioral Consequences Following Laser Ablation Set up a behavioral recording system that consists of a stereoscope equipped with a video camera. Use a camera with an appropriate image acquisition software, commercial or custom-made (Figure 1A). Optimize the lighting condition so that the paramecium can be detected by image processing. For example, use a ring white LED light with a spacer (Figure 1B). Note:</strong…

Representative Results

Figure 1. Prey capture assay and representative data in laser-ablated zebrafish larvae. (A) Behavioral recording system. The stereomicroscope was equipped with a CMOS camera. Images were acquired using a custom-made script. (B) Components of the lighting system. A grey-colored paper, a glass diffuser, white LED ring light, diffuser, a custom-made spacer (cardboard), and diffuser…

Materials

Imageing Chambers	Grace Bio-Labs	CoverWell Imaging Chambers PCIA-2.5	Used as a behavioral recording chamber
ORCA-Flash4.0	Hamamatsu Photonics	Model:C11440-22CU	A scientific CMOS camera
SZX7	Olympus		Stereoscope
A ring LED light	CCS	Model: LDR2-100SW2-LA	White LED
Secure-Seal Hybridization Chamber Gasket, 8 chambers, 9 mm diameter x 0.8 mm depth	Molecular Probes	Catalogue # S-24732	Used as a recording chamber in Ca imaging