Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ALAT Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and detailed explanations. Boost your readiness and confidence!

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Which biological feature is NOT commonly shared between rats and mice?

Do not vomit
Premolars are present
Malocclusion is common
Gestation and weaning times are similar

The correct answer is: Premolars are present

The biological feature that is not commonly shared between rats and mice is that both species do not have premolars. Rats and mice do have a similar dental formula, which includes incisors and molars, but they do not have premolars. Instead, their dental structure consists of a more continuous set of teeth designed for gnawing, without the presence of premolars. Rats and mice are known for their ability to vomit due to their physiological makeup, meaning they do not share the trait of not being able to vomit. Malocclusion, which refers to the misalignment of teeth, can occur in both species, making it a shared characteristic. Additionally, gestation and weaning times are quite similar in both rats and mice, typically around 21 to 23 days for gestation and weaning approximately 3 to 4 weeks after birth. Hence, it is the feature related to premolars that distinguishes them as not commonly shared.