The collared lemming (Dicrostonyx stevensoni Nelson) in biomedical research

The collared lemming, Dicrostonyx stevensoni Nelson, possesses special characteristics which make it a useful animal model for the study of hypercholesteremia, atherosclerosis, breast cancer, kidney disease, and other biomedical research problems. Hematologic values for the lemming were similar to those for the laboratory white mouse except for smaller erythrocytes and fewer leukocytes. Organ weights, when compared as a percent of total body parts, differed only slightly from those of white mice. The basal metabolic rate, measured between 25-30 degrees C, was 40% higher than the standard metabolic rate for a mammal of similar size. Litter size at birth averaged 2.8 in captivity. The mean life span of 254 colony-reared lemmings dying from natural causes was 189 da. Growth rate was rapid during the first 2 mo of life, with moderate increases thereafter to an adult weight of approximately 70 g. Husbandry requirements included the use of shavings as litter and facial tissue as nesting material, all of which was changed weekly. Oats, wheat germ, rabbit pellets, carrots, and lettuse were offered as food.