Chapter 21 - Gerbils Flashcards
(10 cards)
What is the scientific name for the most common species of gerbil used in research?
Meriones unguiculatus
What is another name for a gerbil?
Jird or desert rat
Skin sloughing off a gerbil’s tail while handling is called _____.
degloving
What is the large sebaceous gland on the gerbil abdomen called?
Ventral marking gland
What behavior do male gerbils exhibit around the time of mating?
The “thump” with their hind feet.
What may occur if the litter of a lactating female gerbil is disturbed?
Cannibalism
What is a unique breeding trait among gerbils that is different from other rodents?
They generally form monogamous pairs.
What behaviors can a gerbil exhibit when startled?
They freeze and become immobile or have seizures.
Why must gerbils be housed in a tall cage?
Because gerbils often stand erect on their hind legs.
Why should one be careful picking up a gerbil by the tail?
The tail tip is fragile; the skin may tear off, and the tail may require amputation.
