Accurate tracking and analysis of animal behavior is crucial for modern systems neuroscience. However, following freely moving animals in naturalistic, three-dimensional (3D) or nocturnal environments remains a major challenge. Here, we present EthoLoop, a framework for studying the neuroethology of freely roaming animals. Combining real-time optical tracking and behavioral analysis with remote-controlled stimulus-reward boxes, this system allows direct interactions with animals in their habitat. EthoLoop continuously provides close-up views of the tracked individuals and thus allows high-resolution behavioral analysis using deep-learning methods. The behaviors detected on the fly can be automatically reinforced either by classical conditioning or by optogenetic stimulation via wirelessly controlled portable devices. Finally, by combining 3D tracking with wireless neurophysiology we demonstrate the existence of place-cell-like activity in the hippocampus of freely moving primates. Taken together, we show that the EthoLoop framework enables interactive, well-controlled and reproducible neuroethological studies in large-field naturalistic settings.

准确跟踪和分析动物行为对于现代系统神经科学至关重要。但是，在自然，三维（3D）或夜间环境中自由移动动物仍然是一项重大挑战。在这里，我们介绍了EthoLoop，这是一个研究自由漫游动物神经行为学的框架。该系统结合了实时光学跟踪和行为分析以及远程控制的奖励盒，可与栖息地中的动物直接互动。EthoLoop不断提供被跟踪人员的特写视图，因此可以使用深度学习方法进行高分辨率的行为分析。可以通过经典条件或通过无线控制的便携式设备进行光遗传学刺激来自动增强实时检测到的行为。最后，通过将3D跟踪与无线神经生理学相结合，我们证明了自由移动的灵长类动物海马中存在类似位置细胞的活动。两者合计，我们表明EthoLoop框架可以在大视野自然主义环境中进行交互式，控制良好且可重复的神经行为学研究。