A New Laboratory Research Model: The Damaraland Mole-rat and Its Managed Care

The Damaraland mole-rat (Fukomys damarensis) is a subterranean, hypoxia-tolerant, long-lived rodent endemic to southern and central Africa that is increasingly being used in laboratory research. Its husbandry needs and characteristics differ from traditional rodent research models. Here, we provide a brief overview of this species and discuss its captive housing and husbandry requirements for managed care and good health.