Behavioural variability and repeatability in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) using the novel tank dive test.

ABSTRACT: Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are widely used in behavioural neuroscience as a model for studying anxiety-like and stress-related behaviours. However, substantial variability exists within and among individuals, influenced by factors such as sex, age, and environmental conditions, making the interpretation of anxiety-related behaviours challenging. Here we characterized longitudinal patterns of stability and variability in anxiety-like behaviours across individual adult zebrafish and assessed whether distinct behavioural profiles emerged over time. Using the novel tank dive test, we tracked anxiety-related behaviours in zebrafish across multiple time points over a 21-week period (90, 120, and 150 days post-fertilization). Behavioural metrics, including time spent in tank zones, swimming velocity

SUBMITTER: Johnson AL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12558523 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature