What is the Morris Water Maze?

The Morris Water Maze (MWM) is the gold standard for assessing hippocampal-dependent spatial learning and memory in rodents. Developed by Richard Morris in 1981, the paradigm places animals in a pool of opaque water and requires them to locate a hidden escape platform using distal room cues. Because the platform location is fixed and external landmarks serve as the only navigational guides, the MWM specifically engages place cell networks in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex. The Ugo Basile Circular Pools are purpose-engineered for MWM protocols, constructed from lightweight alimentary-grade fiberglass with embedded mobility wheels and a simple drainage system.

Key Features

• Alimentary-Grade Fiberglass: The tank walls and floor are constructed from high-quality alimentary-grade fiberglass — durable, non-porous, and compatible with all commercial water opacifiers including non-toxic tempera paint and titanium dioxide suspension.
• Low Weight, High Durability: Despite their large diameter, the fiberglass construction keeps tank weight significantly lower than equivalent acrylic or steel tanks, allowing easy repositioning and storage between cohorts.
• Integrated Mobility Wheels: Lockable wheels embedded in the base allow the pool to be moved freely when unlocked and secured firmly during experiments, enabling use in multiple rooms within the same facility.
• Simple Drainage System: A below-tank drain valve allows rapid emptying between sessions without tipping or siphoning, reducing inter-session preparation time in high-throughput labs.
• Multiple Diameters: Available in 100 cm (mice/small rats, Cat. 40105), 120 cm (Cat. 40125), 150 cm (Cat. 40155), and 180 cm (rats, Cat. 40185) to match species body size, swimming ability, and lab space constraints.