The Zebrafish Facility at the University of Oregon Institute of Neuroscience in Eugene houses 50,000 zebrafish (Danio rerio) and the number is growing EVERY day. The Main Facility measures 2000 square feet and four satellite facilities on campus add 2100 square feet of zebrafish research space.
The Facility here at the U of O supports research in 5 biology laboratories (5 principle investigators and approximately 30 post-doctoral scientists) plus supports the Biology curriculum at the University.
The zebrafish here in Eugene consume about 360 pounds of food per year including brood trout pellets, brine shrimp, and Oregon Test Diet.
Currently, the U of O Zebrafish Facility uses a flow-through water system, central heating system (28.3 C), and broad-spectrum florescent lighting (average 15 foot/candles).
The Facility in Eugene is a long-time supporter of the Federal Work Study program. Every year it employs an average of 30 students who perform an integral part of the animal husbandry required to maintain the high standard of care given to the fish. Many work study students find full-time employment in the Institute of Neuroscience after having gained valuable experience in the Fish Facility.
Detailed information about the protocols used at Oregon can be found in the Zebrafish Book.