Figure 2
Patch utilization. These data show the performance of heterogeneous stock rats on the sequential patch depletion procedure across various delays (0, 6, 12, 18, & 24 s). Aqua lines represent male HS rats and blue lines represent female HS rats. (a) Water consumption (μl/min/kg) across all delays. Females had significantly higher water consumption relative to males when body weight was controlled for at all delays tested. (b) Number of patch changes in the last two sessions. Females switched patches significantly fewer times (made fewer “leave” choices) than males for all delays. (c) Mean time spent in the patch (snout poke receptacle) before leaving for the alternate patch. Females stayed in the patch significantly longer at 6- and 12-s delays. Data are expressed as the average ± standard error; *p < 0.05, **p < 0.01, ***p < 0.001 between males (n = 896) and females (n = 898).
