The surrounding environment has an important role in shaping an individual's development and overall health. Both environmental and genetic factors influence the likelihood of developing disorders and the severity of their symptoms. Environmental enrichment improves cognitive performance in zebrafish. However, the exact role of the environment in shaping behavioral phenotypes of externalizing disorders (EDs) in zebrafish remains unclear. A study in Behavioural Brain Research explored this relationship using an adgrl3.1 knockout zebrafish model of EDs, characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity and attention deficits. Researchers found that introducing environmental enrichment to the zebrafish's home tank significantly reduced symptoms associated with EDs, including hyperactivity, compared to animals with barren tanks. These findings suggest that environmental enrichment could serve as a strategy for mitigating symptoms of EDs, particularly those linked to the adgrl3.1 gene, by fostering a more supportive and protective environment.
Original reference: Fontana, B.D., Norton, W.H.J & Parker, M.O. Behav. Brain Res. 479, 115346 (2025)
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