ALAT Animal Husbandry and Environment Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following environmental factors is considered a component of the macroenvironment in an animal facility?

Accepted Answer

The light intensity and cycle in the animal room

Answer

The macroenvironment refers to the larger environment of the animal room itself. This includes factors like the room's temperature, humidity, ventilation, and light cycle, which affect all enclosures within that space. The other options describe aspects of the microenvironment, which is the immediate environment within the animal's primary enclosure.

Question 2

A newly hired ALAT is instructed to disinfect a surface that has been contaminated with organic material. What is the essential first step they must take before applying the disinfectant?

Accepted Answer

Mechanically remove the organic material and clean the surface with a detergent.

Answer

Disinfectants are often inactivated by the presence of organic material like feces, urine, or bedding. Therefore, it is crucial to first physically remove all visible debris and then wash the surface with a soap or detergent to eliminate any remaining organic residue before applying the disinfectant for the recommended contact time.

Question 3

An animal technician observes that a room housing mice has a humidity level of 85%. According to the 'Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals', why is this a concern?

Accepted Answer

High humidity can lead to increased microbial growth and animal discomfort.

Answer

The generally accepted range for humidity in rodent housing rooms is 30% to 70%. Humidity levels above this range, such as 85%, can contribute to the growth of mold and bacteria, create an uncomfortable environment for the animals, and may affect experimental outcomes.

Question 4

Which of the following is the BEST example of environmental enrichment aimed at promoting species-specific behavior in rodents?

Accepted Answer

Providing deep bedding and nesting material.

Answer

Rodents have a natural, species-specific instinct to burrow and build nests. Providing deep bedding and materials like cotton squares or paper strips allows them to perform these behaviors, which enhances their well-being and reduces stress. The other options are examples of poor husbandry practices that would likely cause stress.

Question 5

A research protocol requires that mice be housed in static microisolator cages. To ensure proper animal welfare and a stable microenvironment, how often should these cages typically be changed?

Accepted Answer

At least once every two weeks (biweekly).

Answer

The 'Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals' suggests that solid-bottom caging for rodents, such as static microisolators, should be changed at least once or twice a week. Institutional guidelines often specify a maximum of 14 days (biweekly) between changes for mice in ventilated systems, but static cages may require more frequent changes due to ammonia buildup. Biweekly is a common maximum interval under ideal conditions.

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT Animal Husbandry and Environment Questions and Answers