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The Importance of Understanding the Natural History of Novel Species Used in Research

Abstract

Husbandry requirements differ greatly between species and failure to meet specific needs can result in widespread morbidity and mortality in populations of laboratory animals; this may be especially true in colonies of exotic animals. The author stresses the need to consider a species' natural history in providing housing and care in a research setting.

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Acknowledgements

The author thanks Drs. Janet Martin and Karl Andrutis for their valuable input.

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Mayer, J. The Importance of Understanding the Natural History of Novel Species Used in Research. Lab Anim 33, 32–34 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1038/laban1004-32

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