Breeding season and breeding potential of the greater cane rat (Thryonomysswinderianus) in captivity in South Africa

Authors
van der Merwe, M
Citation
M. Van Der Merwe, Breeding season and breeding potential of the greater cane rat (Thryonomysswinderianus) in captivity in South Africa, S AFR J ZOO, 34(2), 1999, pp. 69-73
Citations number
35
Categorie Soggetti
Animal Sciences
Journal title
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY
ISSN journal
02541858 → ACNP
Volume
34
Issue
2
Year of publication
1999
Pages
69 - 73
Database
ISI
SICI code
0254-1858(199904)34:2<69:BSABPO>2.0.ZU;2-N
Abstract
The cane rat, Thryonomys swinderianus, is an aseasonal breeder. It has a ve ry low fecundity rate with an average litter size of 2.9 (range 1-5), produ cing a maximum of two litters per annum. The low annual fecundity is the di rect result of the extended gestation period of the cane rat which exceeds 150 days in duration.