Behavior of female adult Pacific lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) exposed to natural and synthesized odors

We investigated the behavioral response of female Pacific lamprey to three odors and to differences in water flow. Adult lamprey were challenged with: 1) washings from conspecifics, 2) with washings from adult males, and 3) with an artificial odor that mimicked a component of a natural lamprey pheromone. In addition, we conducted parallel tests to check for rheotaxis. The fish were tested in two Y-mazes where they were exposed to an odor and a control (no odor). The fish were pit-tagged and monitored with four antennas. During overnight tests we counted the number of entries into each arm of the maze and the amount of time spent in each arm.