What is the name of a large white rat? - briefly
The large white rat is commonly known as an albino laboratory rat.
What is the name of a large white rat? - in detail
The animal commonly identified as a large white rodent used in scientific research is the albino laboratory rat, scientifically named Rattus norvegicus (the Norway rat). It is bred for a uniform white coat and pink eyes, traits that result from a lack of melanin. The breed is distinguished by its size, with adult males weighing 300–500 g and females slightly less, and by a body length of 20–25 cm excluding the tail.
Key characteristics:
- Genetic uniformity – inbreeding produces consistent physiological responses, essential for reproducibility in experiments.
- Docile temperament – selective breeding reduces aggression, facilitating handling and housing.
- Rapid growth – reaches maturity within 8–10 weeks, allowing short experimental cycles.
- Well‑documented genome – complete sequencing supports molecular studies and genetic manipulation.
Common applications include toxicology testing, pharmacology, neuroscience, and behavioral research. Their white coloration simplifies visual identification of physiological markers, such as dye uptake or lesion sites, and reduces background pigmentation in imaging techniques.
The term “albino rat” specifically denotes the lack of pigment, whereas “laboratory rat” refers to the broader category of Rattus norvegicus strains maintained for scientific purposes. Both expressions describe the same animal when the emphasis is on its large size and white appearance.