How does a Dambo rat differ from a Dambo‑Rex? - briefly
The ordinary Dambo rat is an unmodified laboratory strain, while the Dambo‑Rex possesses a specific genetic alteration that modifies its physical traits and behavior.
How does a Dambo rat differ from a Dambo‑Rex? - in detail
The Dambo rat and the Dambo‑Rex belong to the same genus but exhibit distinct morphological, behavioral, and genetic traits.
Morphologically, the Dambo rat displays a slender body, average head‑to‑body length of 12 cm, and a light brown dorsal coat with minimal striping. Its tail is proportionally long, lacking any specialized scales. In contrast, the Dambo‑Rex possesses a more robust physique, a head‑to‑body length of 14 cm, and a dense, coarse fur that includes pronounced dorsal ridges. The Rex variant’s tail is shorter and covered with a fine, bristly hair layer.
Behaviorally, the standard Dambo rat is primarily nocturnal, foraging on seeds and insects with solitary tendencies. Breeding occurs year‑round, with litters averaging three pups. The Dambo‑Rex demonstrates crepuscular activity, forming small social groups that share nesting sites. Its diet incorporates a higher proportion of fibrous plant material, and reproductive cycles are seasonal, producing two‑to‑four offspring per litter.
Genetically, mitochondrial DNA analysis reveals a 3.2 % divergence between the two forms, indicating a separate evolutionary branch. The Rex strain carries a mutation in the keratin‑associated gene KRT71, responsible for its characteristic fur texture, whereas the regular rat lacks this allele.
Key differences summarized:
- Size: 12 cm vs. 14 cm body length
- Fur: smooth, light brown vs. dense, coarse with dorsal ridges
- Tail: long, hairless vs. short, bristly
- Activity pattern: strictly nocturnal vs. crepuscular, semi‑social
- Diet: seed/insect bias vs. higher plant fiber content
- Reproduction: continuous breeding vs. seasonal cycles
- Genetic marker: absence vs. presence of KRT71 mutation
These distinctions affect habitat preference, predator avoidance strategies, and suitability for laboratory research, making each form appropriate for different scientific applications.