Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is the most common type of environmental enrichment for mice?

1. Solitary housing

2. Group housing

3. Single exercise wheels

4. Obstacle courses

The correct answer is: Group housing

Group housing is recognized as the most common type of environmental enrichment for mice because it provides social interaction, which is essential for their well-being. Mice are inherently social animals that thrive in the company of their peers. Group housing allows them to engage in natural behaviors such as grooming, playing, and establishing social hierarchies, which can significantly enhance their mental and emotional health. In contrast, solitary housing limits these social interactions, potentially leading to stress and increased aggression. While single exercise wheels and obstacle courses can contribute to physical enrichment, they do not address the social needs of mice as effectively as group housing. Therefore, group housing represents a comprehensive approach to environmental enrichment that encompasses both social and physical aspects crucial for the overall health of mice in research settings.