The Open Field test as a tool for behavior analysis in pigs - is a standardization of setup necessary? A systematic review.

Abstract

The Open Field test is a common tool to measure anxiety and behavioral changes in rodents. However, scientific findings of rodent experiments may not translate adequately to humans and it has been shown that larger animal models might perform better in that regard. As a result, the number of published studies involving the Open Field test in domestic pig models is increasing. The aim of our review was to investigate the Open Field set-ups in published studies as well as similarity between performance and parameters published. Following the PRISMA guidelines for reviews we selected 69 studies for data extraction in this systematic review. We were able to determine specific set-up conditions such as size, duration and daytime for most of the included studies and found a high variability within these test specifiers. Results indicate a non-uniform performance of set-up including size, timing, parameters and additional combined tests such as the novel object test. We would like to point out the need for standardization of Open Field test for pigs in order to improve result, comparability and reduce inconsistencies.