ALAT Breeding and Reproduction Questions and Answers

Question 1

When determining the sex of neonatal mice, what is the most reliable anatomical comparison to make?

Accepted Answer

The anogenital distance

Answer

The most reliable method for sexing neonatal rodents is to compare the anogenital distance, which is the space between the anus and the genital papilla. This distance is significantly longer in males than in females.

Question 2

A research colony manager wants to maintain maximum genetic diversity and vigor in a mouse colony. Which breeding scheme should be implemented?

Accepted Answer

Outbreeding

Answer

Outbreeding is the practice of mating unrelated or distantly related individuals. This strategy is used to maximize genetic variation (heterozygosity) and produce healthier, more vigorous animals, which is the opposite goal of inbreeding.

Question 3

An ALAT is caring for a pregnant doe (female rabbit). What is the typical gestation period the technician should expect for this animal?

Accepted Answer

30-33 days

Answer

The gestation period for the domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is approximately 30 to 33 days. A period of 19-22 days is typical for mice, while 58-63 days is common for guinea pigs.

Question 4

Which of the following terms describes the period when a female animal is sexually receptive and will permit mating?

Accepted Answer

Estrus

Answer

Estrus, often referred to as 'heat,' is the specific phase in the reproductive cycle when a female is receptive to the male and ovulation occurs. Gestation is the period of pregnancy, parturition is the act of giving birth, and anestrus is a period of sexual inactivity.

Question 5

A technician is setting up breeding cages for mice using a polygynous system. Which of the following housing arrangements is correct for this system?

Accepted Answer

One male housed with two or more females

Answer

A polygynous (a type of polygamous) mating system involves one male being mated with multiple females. This is a common and efficient method for rodent breeding in a laboratory setting. A monogamous system pairs one male with one female.

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT Breeding and Reproduction Questions and Answers