The Behavior of the Laboratory Rat: A Handbook with Tests

by Ian Q. Whishaw (Editor), Bryan Kolb

More is known about the behavior, anatomy, and molecular biology of the laboratory rat than any other animal species. Although its natural history and psychological functions have been described previously in books, this is the first comprehensive description of its behavior. Both seasoned and beginning investigators will be amazed at the range and complexity of the species as described in the 43 chapters of this volume. The behavioral descriptions are closely tied to the laboratory methods from which they were derived, thus allowing investigators to correlate the behavior and methods and exploit them in their own research. This book is aimed at investigators in neuroscience who may not be familiar with rat behavior, but who wish to incorporate behavioral studies into their own research. Nevertheless, seasoned investigators will also find the book to be a handy reference for behavioral paradigms with which they may not be familiar. It is expected that as the genetic and
molecular understanding of the rat develops, there will be an increasing need for knowledge about rat behavior. This book will serve as an indispensable resource for neuroscientists, psychologists, pharmacologists, geneticists, molecular biologists, zoologists, and their students and trainees.

520 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2004

Reviews

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I borrowed this book from my lab manager, but from what I read, it deepens my love for lab rats, particularly, the Long-Evans rat (the cutie on the front cover). Lots of good information, but it's a constant reminder to me that I need to take Biology classes again. We work with Long-Evans rats in my la, and I love them. As the book states, if you want to know yourself, study these lovely creatures.