ABSTRACT
The zebrafish (Danio rerio), a small freshwater fish originating from Asia, is a common pet shop favorite. The species is generally not aggressive, can thrive in simple home aquarium conditions, and can be bred relatively easily. Zebrafish are oviparous (fertilization and development occur externally) and can be prolific egg producers, with between 50 and 300 fertilized eggs produced by a breeding pair at least once per week (1). Zebrafish embryos lend themselves particularly well to the in-life exploration of vertebrate development since the embryos are transparent and their development can be followed up to adulthood. Adult zebrafish husbandry and zebrafish embryo culture are not resource intensive, especially when compared to other animals commonly used in studies of developmental toxicology.
