Biphasic constant-current stimulator for whole-animal shocking of marine animals

A constant-current stimulator delivering biphasic pulses was designed and constructed for whole-animal shocking during aversive conditioning of Pleurobrartchaea, a marine gastropod mollusk used for behavioral and neurophysiological research. The advantages of whole-animal stimulation are discussed and results are briefly described with regard to the factors involved in evaluating the procedure. The circuit design and electrode considerations are presented in detail. The basic stimulator design has potential for use as a general instrument for behavioral and physiological research.