Professional paper

Methods of identification and marking of laboratory mice and rats

Sven Menčik ; Veterinarski fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Anamaria Ekert Kabalin ; Veterinarski fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Velimir Sušić ; Veterinarski fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Mario Ostović ; Veterinarski fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Željko Pavičić ; Veterinarski fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Maja Maurić ; Veterinarski fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Ivan Vlahek ; Veterinarski fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Zagreb, Hrvatska

Abstract

The aim of laboratory animal description and marking is the clear identification of each individual animal, as one of the preconditions for research reliability, follow up and traceability of data recorded during research, especially in the case of genetically modified animals. Mice and rats of various lines account for more than 95% of all laboratory animal species that can be used legally in laboratory research, depending on the purpose and type of studies. Prior to marking, the laboratory animal should be described, based on the due knowledge of the standard species, breeds and lines. Describing laboratory animals according to assessment and development of particular parts of the body, skin colour, body measures and photographs greatly depends on the experience, knowledge and competence of personnel. There are five basic principles that should be considered in animal marking, as follows: the marking method should be simple to use, applicable as early as possible after birth, economically acceptable, long-life, and the marks should be readily observable and legible at any time of identification. The methods of laboratory animal marking can
be divided according to their durability and invasiveness. In terms of durability, they can be temporary or permanent, while in terms of invasiveness they can be invasive or non-invasive. Temporary non-invasive marking methods include the use felt-tip pen (skin marking) and shaving/cutting the fur, whereas temporary invasive methods include subcutaneous ink application and ear marking (ear tag). Tattooing/micro-tattooing, electronic marking (microchipping), ear notching, removal of the finger distal phalanx, and genotyping are permanent invasive methods of laboratory animal marking. Ear notching and ear marking are the most widely used methods of marking laboratory mice and rats. The best method of laboratory animal marking depends on the animal species and must be in accordance with the legislation on animal welfare, procedures, timing and course of laboratory experiments. Success of laboratory animal marking greatly depends on personnel experience, training and competence, and on the use of specialized marking equipment.

Keywords

identification; marking; laboratory animals (mouse and rat)

Hrčak ID:

223218

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/223218

Publication date:

8.12.2018.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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