Hello everyone,

I’m currently an undergraduate student working on automating the negative geotaxis assay to reduce human error using the Trikinetics DAM5H Activity Monitor and vortex. While I’ve successfully assembled the apparatus and programmed the software, I’ve encountered an issue where wildtype flies exhibit poor locomotion in the vertical setup of the assay and the software doesn't pickup motion data either all the time.

From what I’ve read, flies might perform better in horizontal configurations, but I’d love to hear from anyone who has experience with automating geotaxis or similar motility assays.

• Have you encountered similar challenges in automation of the fly geotaxis?
• Are there strategies or apparatus modifications that worked for you?
• Any insights into whether vertical vs. horizontal configurations significantly impact results?
• Did anyone perhaps order the Trikenticss DAM5H activity monitor themselves and had similar frustrations or even successes?

I’d appreciate any advice, shared experiences, or references to similar projects. Thank you!