Reproduction, development and physiology of the gray short-tailed opossum (Monodelphis domestica).
The gray short-tailed opossum (Monodelphis domestica) has become a useful marsupial for biomedical research since it breeds reliably in the laboratory. During a 3 year period (1983-1986), a total of 129 litters were born in the colony at NJMS resulting in five generations of captive-born animals. Litter size ranged from 2 to 13 and the average sex ratio at weaning was 1:1. Mean body temperature of M. domestica was approximately 32.3 degrees C and respiratory rate approximately 54 breaths/minute. Systolic blood pressures of approximately 188 mmHg and heart rates of 345 beats/minute were found. Techniques of blood collection, anesthesia, implanting of hormones, ovariectomies and castrations, and treatment of neonates are described as well as current practices of colony management.
Kraus
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DB
Dept. of Psychiatry and Mental Health Science, Univ. of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Newmark 07103-2757.
Fadem
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BH
D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D009893:Opossums / Q000502:physiology*; D012098:Reproduction