For example, there is potential to replace classical mammalian models, or indeed, refine existing aquatic models, inparticular in the light of increasing potential for non-invasive physiological measurement in aquatic vertebrates (Scott et al., 2008).Third, it presents the opportunity for increasing throughput inan age of ‘big data’; thus, increasing the potential for scientificbreakthrough. However, extensive experience with rodent models,coupled with increasing evidence from laboratory-based aquaticvertebrate research, has demonstrated that there are a number ofchallenges that accompany the developmental of large-scale laboratoryanimal behavioural testing. The goal of this review is toconsider what are the main challenges faced by researchers when