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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2024.01.09.574712

Song Torrent: A modular, open-source 96-chamber audio and video recording apparatus with optogenetic activation and inactivation capabilities for Drosophila

Sawtelle, S.·Narayan, L.·Ding, Y.·Kim, E.·Berhman, E. L.·Lillvis, J. L.·Kawase, T.·Stern, D. L.
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Abstract

BackgroundO_LIMany Drosophila species use acoustic communication during courtship and studies of these communication systems have provided insight into neurobiology, behavioral ecology, ethology, and evolution. C_LIO_LIRecording Drosophila courtship sounds and associated behavior is challenging, especially at high throughput, and previously designed devices are relatively expensive and complex to assemble. C_LI ResultsO_LIWe present construction plans for a modular system utilizing mostly off-the-shelf, relatively inexpensive components that provides simultaneous high-resolution audio and video recording of 96 isolated or paired Drosophila individuals. C_LIO_LIWe provide open-source control software to record audio and video. C_LIO_LIWe designed high intensity LED arrays that can be used to perform optogenetic activation and inactivation of labelled neurons. C_LIO_LIThe basic design can be modified to facilitate novel study designs or to record insects larger than Drosophila. C_LIO_LIFewer than 96 microphones can be used in the system if the full array is not required or to reduce costs. C_LI ImplicationsO_LIOur hardware design and software provide an improved platform for reliable and comparatively inexpensive high-throughput recording of Drosophila courtship acoustic and visual behavior and perhaps for recording acoustic signals of other small animals. C_LI

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Sawtelle, S., Narayan, L., Ding, Y., Kim, E., Berhman, E. L., Lillvis, J. L., Kawase, T., Stern, D. L.. 2024-01-10. Song Torrent: A modular, open-source 96-chamber audio and video recording apparatus with optogenetic activation and inactivation capabilities for Drosophila. https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.01.09.574712

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