Application of ImageCaster and ImageJ Software to Behavioral Ecology

Meredith Goff, Vassar College ’11 and Prof. Jesse Brunner, Assist. Prof,
SUNY Environmental Science & Forestry

Historically, ecologists have relied on first-hand observations of animal behavior. Traditional research methods are limiting to ecologists who wish to monitor several mesocosms concurrently, or review their impressions at a later date, and whose diurnal schedules conflict with those of nocturnal subjects. Furthermore, disturbance by ecologists may have confounding effects on animal behavior. This summer, we applied ImageCaster and ImageJ software to studies of Spotted Salamander (Ambystoma maculatum) antipredator responses. We were able to moderate time constraints on viewing, collect qualitative and quantitative data on as many as 24 animals at a time, and reexamine data days after experiments were completed. Moreover, the need for continuous adjustment of equipment by the researcher was eliminated. Future investigations will involve the use of fluorescent tags to facilitate 24-hour viewing of animals, and more robust tests of whether direct and retrospective behavioral studies produce analogous results.