Abstract:

This dataset explores the effects of oil exposure on different types of learning in fish, specifically zebrafish (Danio rerio). Individuals were trained to move through a maze to find a shoal or food items. Oil exposure occurred before learning begins and after learning to look at the effects on learning ability and short-term memory. Another learning test was designed to look at the ability of learning about new predators using odor cues. Brains were sampled from all individuals to assess markers of brain damage.

Suggested Citation:

Khursigara, Alexis and Andrew Esbaugh. 2020. Effects of oil exposure on different types of learning abilities in zebrafish (Danio rerio). Distributed by: GRIIDC, Harte Research Institute, Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. doi:10.7266/n7-djty-9z95

Purpose:

Investigate the impacts of oil exposure on the learning ability of zebrafish (Danio rerio).

Data Parameters and Units:

Dataset consists of several Excel files containing measurements and readme files explaining nomenclature used in files. The headers are: Date, Time, Tank ID, # of Fish, Temperature (C), pH, Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L), Dissolved Oxygen (% Saturation), Salinity (ppt), Ammonia Sample ID, Tank Status (Flush/ Static), Tank ID, Ammonia Sample ID, Mean Ammonia Concentration (µg/L) From Triplicate Readings, Standard Deviation of Mean Ammonia Concentration, Ring Structure, Compound, SUM %, Measurement Period, and Description.

Methods:

Fish were tagged with Elastomer tags five days prior to exposure. Fish were placed into a three-room maze. One room led to a reward room where four stimulus fish (two males and two females) were located. After an acclimation period, focal fish were allowed to explore the maze and locate the stimulus fish. Fish had 10 minutes to find the stimulus or else they would be moved into the reward room. This was repeated once a day for five days.

Instruments:

Elastomer tags, Web cameras, LoliTrack

Error Analysis:

All endpoints were analyzed with a Repeated Measure ANOVA

Individual Files: