Article

Breeding season and breeding potential of the greater cane rat (Thryonomys swinderianus) in captivity in South Africa

Published in: South African Journal of Zoology
Volume 34 , issue 2 , 1999 , pages: 69–73

DOI: 10.1080/02541858.1999.11448490

Author(s): M. van der Merwe Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, South Africa

Keywords: Cane rats , Thryonomys swinderianus

Abstract

The cane rat, Thryonomys swinderianus, is an aseasonal breeder. It has a very low fecundity rate with an average litter size of 2.9 (range 1-5), producing a maximum of two litters per annum. The low annual fecundity is the direct result of the extended gestation period of the cane rat which exceeds 150 days in duration.

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