Reproductive characteristics of wild native Australian Rattus (Rodentia : Muridae)

Abstract

Reproduction in field populations of the five species and 13 of 14 subspecies of native Australian Rattus is compared, using both materials personally collected and museum specimens. We have separated each subspecies into juvenile and adult categories, the dividing point reflecting the approximate size at which sexual maturity is reached. Occurrence of pregnancies and juveniles, treated monthly, permit estimates of time and length of seasonal breeding for each subspecies. Information on gonads and accessory sex glands is given for both breeding and non-breeding adults and for juveniles. All Australian subspecies of Rattus have a fundamentally similar mechanism of reproduction. Those attaining high densities have the highest ovulation rates, the largest litter sizes, and the greatest number of teats. Furthermore, in the two subspecies of high reproductive potential for which we have evidence, females can be precocious in attaining sexual maturity under field conditions.