Light and Dark BoxNovember 7, 2024

Crocus Light/Dark Box: Anxiety Assessment Tool for Rats and Mice

Introduction

The Crocus Light/Dark Box  is an essential tool for the assessment of anxiety in small animals, particularly in research on anxiolytic and anxiogenic agents. Used primarily with rats and mice. This device measures the natural preference of animals for dark, enclosed spaces over brightly lit, exposed areas. This valuable behavioral data allows researchers to gauge the anxiety levels of test subjects accurately.

How the Crocus Light/Dark Box Works

The Crocus Light/Dark Box is designed to observe the behavior of rodents in two contrasting environments—one dark and enclosed, and the other brightly lit and open. Animals typically display a natural preference for the dark space, and their behavior across both compartments provides reliable insights into their anxiety levels. By measuring the time spent in the lit area and other exploratory behaviors, researchers can identify or screen agents that may have anxiolytic or anxiogenic properties.

Specifications 

  1. Available for Rat or Mouse Models – The box is designed to cater to either rats or mice, with appropriate dimensions and safe materials.
  2. Easy Cleaning and Maintenance – The walls fit solidly into a slotted base, yet can be easily lifted off, allowing hassle-free cleaning.
  3. Non-Reflective Base Plate – The base is grey and non-reflective, ensuring accurate behavioral observation without environmental interference.
  4. Model Dimensions:
    • CST-STA02: Diameter 10 cm x Height 25 cm (4 in x 10 in)
    • CST-STA04: Diameter 20 cm x Height 50 cm (8 in x 20 in)
Light & Dark

Key Features of the Black & White Test

The Black & White Test is enhanced with several unique features that make the Crocus Light/Dark Box an ideal choice for anxiety assessment:

  • Independent Compartment Illumination – The contrasting illumination provides clear zones of light and darkness.
  • Reliable Data on Animal Behavior:
    • Total time spent in each compartment
    • Latency to the first change of compartment
    • Number of transitions between compartments
  • Customizable Sizes – Standard transparent cylinder is available, with other sizes available on request.

Why Choose the Crocus Light/Dark Box?

For researchers and labs focused on anxiety-related studies, the Crocus Light/Dark Box offers consistent, dependable results. Its design ensures easy maintenance, clear visibility of animal behavior, and high accuracy in measuring anxiety responses.

Conclusion

The Crocus Light/Dark Box provides essential insights into animal behavior, allowing researchers to conduct effective anxiety assessments with high precision. Whether for new drug testing or behavior studies, this box is a valuable asset in the scientific assessment of anxiolytic and anxiogenic agents.

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