ALAT ALAT Species-Specific Care and Experimental Models Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which species is most commonly used as a model for cardiovascular disease research in US biomedical laboratories?

Accepted Answer

Rabbit

Answer

Hamster

Answer

Guinea pig

Answer

Mouse

Question 2

What is a unique feature of guinea pig nutrition that must be considered in their care?

Accepted Answer

They cannot synthesize vitamin C and must receive dietary supplementation

Answer

They require supplemental iron in their diet

Answer

They need a high-fat diet to maintain body condition

Answer

They require live insects as a protein source

Question 3

Which characteristic distinguishes an athymic nude mouse from a standard inbred mouse?

Accepted Answer

It lacks a functional immune system due to absence of T cells

Answer

It is resistant to all known pathogens

Answer

It has an enhanced innate immune response

Answer

It cannot be used in tumor xenograft studies

Question 4

What is the normal gestation period for a mouse?

Accepted Answer

19–21 days

Answer

14 days

Answer

28 days

Answer

63 days

Question 5

In which species is the 'Harderian gland' significant, often producing red-tinged secretion (chromodacryorrhea) when stressed?

Accepted Answer

Rat

Answer

Rabbit

Answer

Dog

Answer

Non-human primate

Question 6

Which of the following is a key behavioral characteristic of rabbits that must be considered when housing them?

Accepted Answer

They can be injured by kicking with their powerful hind legs if improperly handled

Answer

They are obligate social animals and must always be pair-housed

Answer

They are nocturnal and must be housed in complete darkness during the day

Answer

They require daily water submersion for health maintenance