Cytology Approach In the Determination of the Sexual Cycle of Captive Greater Cane Rat (Thryonomys swinderianus, Temminck 1827)

Abstract

We undertook this study to identify oestrus of greater cane rat. Sexual behavior of 14 females was observed for 6 months. Vaginal samples were performed and stained refer to Papanicolaou (1942). Our results showed that there are four very irregular stages of sexual cycle with cane rat. At the anoestrus stage, vulva is sealed. Females refuse projections. Vaginal smears are basophils. The index estrogen is about 10%. Vaginal mucus is viscous and yellowish at all stages of the cycle except at the oestrus where it becomes fluid. At oestrus, the vulva is open and oozing. Smears are acidophilic and inflammatory. The estrogenic index is 90%. The female is docile and easily accepts the projection. While determine the physiological state of the females before mating, we have been able to achieve without couplings aggressive males.