Anaesthesia and analgesia in laboratory adult zebrafish: a question of refinement. (December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Martins, Tânia; Valentim, Ana M.; Pereira, Nuno; Antunes, Luis M.
• Other Names: Golledge H guest-editor.; Jirkof P guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Laboratory animals. Volume 50:Number 6(2016)
• Page Start: 476
• Page End: 488
• Publication Date: 2016-12
• Subjects: anaesthesia -- analgesia -- refinement -- welfare -- zebrafish; Animal experimentation -- Periodicals; Animal models in research -- Periodicals; Laboratory animals -- Periodicals; Animal welfare -- Periodicals; 636.0885
• DOI: 10.1177/0023677216670686
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0023-6772

Abstract

Anaesthesia is used daily in fish experimental procedures; however, the use of an inadequate anaesthetic protocol can compromise not only the animal's welfare but also the reliability of results. The use of zebrafish ( Danio rerio ) in biomedical research has increased in the last decades, highlighting the importance of appropriate anaesthetic regimens for this species. This article reviews the main anaesthetic agents and protocols used in laboratory adult zebrafish, and some of the analgesic methods to be used in this species that still need more research. In addition, a systematized observation of signs is proposed to evaluate adult zebrafish welfare to reduce pain and distress.