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Abstract
The heart rate (HR) of chick embryos before hatching is a relevant physiological parameter for the evaluation of regulation mechanisms of the cardiovascular system under different environmental conditions, e.g. oxygen supply. Movements of the embryo can be interpreted as a behavioural response to such changes. Using the PowerLab hardware and Chart software (AD Instruments), the ECG of a 14 day old chick embryo was recorded almost non-invasively by three electrodes penetrating the otherwise intact egg shell. The Chart program can be used to calculate the HR and its variability from the precisely detectable R-waves of the ECG. Artefacts in the ECG trace are derived from movements of the embryo. Under hypoxic conditions, the program can show that HR and HRV increased, whereas the embryo movements decreased. Using this technology, it can be determined that the embryo compensates for lower oxygen supply with faster blood circulation and saves energy by reducing unnecessary movements.