Sugar gliders mod 10

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of sugar gliders?

They have a scent gland on top of their head

They have extra pubic bones typical of many marsupials (correct)

They have multiple scent glands on the head, chest, and paracloacal area

They have a patagium that stretches from the fifth digit of the forelimb to the tarsus of the hindlimb

What is the average weight of a female sugar glider?

95-135 grams (correct)

160-200 grams

115-160 grams

200-240 grams

What is the average heart rate of a sugar glider?

60-80 beats per minute

80-100 beats per minute

40-60 beats per minute

200-300 beats per minute (correct)

Where are the scent glands located in a female sugar glider?

Inside her pouch Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of the artificial nectar/protein mix used for Leadbeater’s possums?

Neonatal baby formula Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the diet is composed of the commercially available insectivore or carnivore diet for sugar gliders?

50% Signup and view all the answers

How much crude protein is recommended for adult captive sugar gliders weighing 130g?

Between 1750 mg and 2000 mg Signup and view all the answers

Which mite has been associated with mange in sugar gliders?

Petauralges rackae Signup and view all the answers

Which dental formula is correct for the sugar glider?

I3/1 C1/0 Pm3/4 and M4/4 (total 40) Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the sugar glider's digestive system is specialized to digest acacia gum?

Enlarged caecum Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the cloaca in marsupials?

Common opening for the urinary, reproductive, and digestive system Signup and view all the answers

How does the heart size of marsupials compare to that of Eutherian mammals?

Around 30% heavier Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true about the reproductive system of marsupials?

The urethral opening is located in the vaginal canals Signup and view all the answers

What is the average gestation length of a sugar glider?

16 days Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of foetal diapause in marsupials?

To delay the development and implantation of the fertilized egg until the young have been weaned or die Signup and view all the answers

How do neonates of marsupials attach to the teat?

The teat swells up and the neonate becomes firmly attached Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is commonly seen in captive sugar gliders due to a lack of calcium and vitamin D3?

Musculoskeletal disease Signup and view all the answers

What can be a cause of paralysis in sugar gliders?

Migration of nematodes in the spinal cord Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the body do male sugar gliders self-mutilate when kept alone?

Penis and scrotum Signup and view all the answers

What can be a consequence of obesity and overcrowding in sugar gliders?

Infertility Signup and view all the answers

Which vitamin deficiency can lead to seizures in sugar gliders?

Vitamin B1 Signup and view all the answers

Which bacteria have been reported to cause gastrointestinal infections in sugar gliders?

Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, Salmonella spp., and Clostridium spp. Signup and view all the answers

What symptoms can be caused by Clostridium spp. infections in sugar gliders?

Acute death, diarrhoea, tenesmus, and rectal prolapses Signup and view all the answers

Which parasite has been reported in the gut of sugar gliders?

Parastrongyloides spp., Paraustrostrongylus spp., and Paraustroxyuris spp. Signup and view all the answers

What respiratory infection has been reported in sugar gliders?

Pasteurella multocida, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Klebsiella spp. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Sugar Gliders Overview

Sugar gliders are small, nocturnal marsupials with unique adaptations for gliding.
Notable characteristic: They have a membrane stretching from wrist to ankle for gliding.

Average Weight and Heart Rate

Average weight of a female sugar glider is approximately 130 grams.
Average heart rate ranges from 250 to 300 beats per minute.

Scent Glands

Female sugar gliders possess scent glands located near the genital area, used for communication and territory marking.

Diet and Nutrition

Leadbeater’s possums require a specific artificial nectar/protein mix; one ingredient type is not suitable.
Approximately 40% of a sugar glider's diet should consist of commercially available insectivore or carnivore diet.
Recommended crude protein for adult captive sugar gliders weighing 130 grams is around 20-25%.

Health and Diseases

Mange in sugar gliders is commonly associated with the mite Sarcoptes scabiei.
Commonly seen conditions due to calcium and vitamin D3 deficiency include metabolic bone disease.
Paralysis in sugar gliders can be attributed to nutritional deficiencies or injuries.

Dentistry

The correct dental formula for sugar gliders is 2(1/1, 0/0, 3/3) = 50 teeth.

Digestive System Adaptations

The cecum is specialized in sugar gliders for digesting acacia gum, maximizing nutrient absorption from their diet.

Reproductive System and Gestation

Average gestation length for sugar gliders is about 16 days, followed by a prolonged period of development in the pouch.
Fetal diapause allows marsupials to delay development during unfavorable environmental conditions.

Behavior and Consequences of Companionship

Neonates attach to the teat using a specialized reflex, which ensures they gain nourishment.
Male sugar gliders may self-mutilate their genital area when kept alone, due to stress or behavioral issues.
Obesity and overcrowding can lead to health complications, including diabetes and decreased lifespan.

Vitamin Deficiencies

Vitamin E deficiency can lead to seizures in sugar gliders, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet.

Gastrointestinal and Respiratory Issues

Clostridium spp. infections in sugar gliders can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and lethargy.
Reported respiratory infections include pneumonia, often associated with poor living conditions or stress.

Parasites

Parasites such as Giardia have been found in the gut of sugar gliders, contributing to gastrointestinal illness and distress.

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Description

Test your knowledge on spider nutrition and the benefits of an artificial nectar/protein mix. Learn about the ingredients and their potential impact on spiders' health. Challenge yourself with this quiz and discover fascinating facts about spider diets!