The Y-Maze is widely used to measure preference and spatial memory and learning tasks in laboratory animals. Animals learn to alternate between arms based on their memory of the previously visited arms or choose an arm based on the reward presented. The simple Y-shape design provides a single choice point with only two alternatives.
All Animal Mazes manufactured by Ugo Basile are designed to give optimal results with any Video-Tracking software. This is achieved by:
- high-contrast colors: grey, white, black or the NEW Ugo Basile light-blue
- non-reflective surface: reflections are a common source of error in animal tracking. Let’s avoid them!
All materials were selected to be sturdy and easy to clean, to construct reliable and durable mazes. Surface texture was selected for best rodent comfort (reasonably rough, “warm” surface).
Two sizes are available, for either mice or rats. The mouse Y-Maze, has a 35cm long arms, 5cm wide and 15cm tall. In the rat model the arms are 50cm long, with a 10cm width and a 20cm height. Different wall heights are available on request
Perspex Walls fit solidly in the slotted metal base, but can be easily and quickly detached for easy cleaning and storage.
An optional movable door is available, to close one arm when needed.