Stages of embryonic development of the zebrafish

Abstract

We describe a series of stages for development of the embryo of the zebrafish, Danio (Brachydanio) rerio. We define seven broad periods of embryogenesis--the zygote, cleavage, blastula, gastrula, segmentation, pharyngula, and hatching periods. These divisions highlight the changing spectrum of major developmental processes that occur during the first 3 days after fertilization, and we review some of what is known about morphogenesis and other significant events that occur during each of the periods. Stages subdivide the periods. Stages are named, not numbered as in most other series, providing for flexibility and continued evolution of the staging series as we learn more about development in this species. The stages, and their names, are based on morphological features, generally readily identified by examination of the live embryo with the dissecting stereomicroscope. The descriptions also fully utilize the optical transparancy of the live embryo, which provides for visibility of even very deep structures when the embryo is examined with the compound microscope and Nomarski interference contrast illumination. Photomicrographs and composite camera lucida line drawings characterize the stages pictorially. Other figures chart the development of distinctive characters used as staging aid signposts.

Postembryonic staging of wild‐type goldfish, with brief reference to skeletal systems

“…We defined the goldfish larval stages based on the embryonic and postembryonic staging tables of zebrafish (Kimmel et al, 1995; Parichy et al, 2009). In brief, hatching and the presence of the protruding mouth was defined as the end of the embryonic period, and the intermediate stages between the end of the embryonic period and juvenile period were defined as the larval period.…”

“…Of the internal skeletal structures of the pectoral girdle, the cleithrum can be observed at early stages (Kimmel et al, 1995; Grandel and Schulte‐Merker, 1998; Du et al, 2001; Mabee et al, 2002). By the prot stage at the latest, this skeleton can be observed as calcified tissues (Fig.…”

BAC transgenic zebrafish reveal hypothalamic enhancer activity around obesity associated SNP rs9939609 within the human FTO gene

“…The fish were kept at a 14 h light/8 h dark cycle at 28.5°C. The larvae were staged according to established zebrafish protocols (Kimmel et al ., 1995). …”

laminin alpha 1gene is essential for normal lens development in zebrafish

“…The embryos were obtained by natural spawning and raised at 28.5°C. The developmental stage was determined by time (hours post fertilization (hpf)) and by morphological criteria [84]. All experiments were conducted in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the animal care and use committees at the Medical College of Wisconsin.…”