How does neural activity encode spontaneous motor behavior in zebrafish larvae ?

The origins of spontaneous movements have been investigated in human as well as in other vertebrates. Studies have reported an increase in neuronal activity one second before the onset of a given movement: this is known as readiness potential. The mechanisms underlying this increase are still unclear. Zebrafish larva is an ideal animal model to study the neuronal basis of spontaneous movements. Because of its small size and transparency, this vertebrate is an ideal candidate to apply optical recording methods. In order to understand what neuronal activity causes the execution of a specific tail movement at a given time, we will mainly use a prediction approach.