Husbandry of Monodelphis domestica in the study of mammalian embryogenesis

Lab Anim (NY). 2010 Jul;39(7):219-26. doi: 10.1038/laban0710-219.

Abstract

Monodelphis domestica, commonly called the laboratory opossum, is a useful laboratory animal for studying marsupial embryogenesis and mammalian development. Females breed year-round and the animals can be sustainably bred indoors. The authors draw on their own laboratory's experience to supplement previously published research on laboratory opossums. They describe a breeding protocol that reliably produces timed-pregnant M. domestica. Additionally, the authors discuss general laboratory opossum husbandry techniques and describe how to collect, handle and culture embryos.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aging / physiology
  • Animal Husbandry / methods*
  • Animals
  • Animals, Laboratory / physiology*
  • Animals, Newborn / physiology
  • Body Weight / physiology
  • Embryo, Mammalian / physiology*
  • Embryonic Development / physiology*
  • Female
  • Male
  • Monodelphis / physiology*
  • Pregnancy