These 3D-printed arcs are specifically designed to streamline the egg collection process in axolotl breeding tanks, replacing traditional air tubing. Constructed from flexible TPU with 0% infill, the arcs are lightweight yet durable, ensuring gentle handling of eggs. Each end features integrated hooks for easy attachment to suction cups, allowing the arcs to be securely fastened to the tank bottom. Once in place, the arcs create a stable structure within the water, enhancing accessibility and efficiency during egg collection.

Developed by the Aquatic Germplasm and Genetic Resources Center (AGGRC) at the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center. Designed by Brittany Ratliff and colleagues, in partnership with the International Zebrafish Resource Center (ZIRC) and USDA National Animal Germplasm Program (NAGP). This work was funded in part by NIH Office of Research Infrastructure Program (ORIP). This device is part of a multi-year project to develop a series of open hardware to support development of standardized and reproducible tools for the research communities that use aquatic models to study human diseases.

All Fusion 360 files can be found on our GitHub through the following link:

https://github.com/aggrc/Axolotl-Arc-V1.3.0