Post-natal development of the African Bush Rat, Aethomys chrysophilus

Abstract

This is the first detailed study of the post-natal development of Aethomys chrysophilus. Physical measurements were taken from 37 litters consisting of 116 young, and the behaviour of 37 young from 12 litters was observed. The physical development of the young is described and the weight and linear increases analysed. Litter size varied between one and five with an average of 3,1 young per litter for 37 litters. The minimum age of sexual maturity was approximately 82 days, and the shortest interval between litters was 26 days. Major behavioural changes were found at six, 12 and 26 days, and on this basis the post-natal development is divided into Neonatal (0-5 days). Transition (6-11 days), Infantile (12-25 days) and Juvenile (26-82 days) periods. Nipple-clinging dominated the early stages of development and the modifications of the incisors for this purpose are described. The parent-young relationship and mortality of the young are discussed. In addition, the post-natal development of A. chrysophilus is compared with that of three other South African murids, namely Aethomys namaquensis, Thallomys paedulcus and Praomys (Mastomys) natalensis.