Studying the flexibility of brain and behavior

Our brains are in constant flux — leading us to behave differently if we are alert or sleepy, hungry or sated, alone or in a group. What biological mechanisms allow nervous systems to be so flexible?

We address this problem by studying the brains of zebrafish (Danio rerio) and glassfish (Danionella cerebrum) as they adjust their behavior to different circumstances. The brains of these vertebrates share much with mammals, but are small and transparent — allowing us to observe the entire brain in action.