Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of environmental enrichment for laboratory mice?

1. To keep them busy

2. To improve their welfare

3. To enhance research quality

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The primary purpose of environmental enrichment for laboratory mice encompasses multiple facets that contribute to their overall well-being and the quality of research conducted. Environmental enrichment refers to modifications made to the laboratory mice's living conditions that promote their natural behaviors, stimulate their cognitive functions, and reduce stress. Improving welfare is a significant focus of environmental enrichment, as it provides mice with opportunities to engage in species-specific activities, such as exploring, nesting, foraging, and socializing. When mice are housed in environments that allow for these actions, their physical and psychological health can improve. This not only aligns with ethical considerations but also adheres to regulations regarding the humane treatment of laboratory animals. Moreover, enhancing research quality is a critical outcome. Mice that are better adjusted and experience less stress are likely to exhibit more consistent and reliable behavior and physiological responses. This consistency leads to more credible research findings, making it easier for researchers to draw meaningful conclusions. Additionally, while keeping them busy is a part of the enrichment strategy, the broader impacts of welfare improvement and research quality enhancement are more central to the overall objectives of this practice. Therefore, the correct choice reflects the comprehensive benefits of environmental enrichment, highlighting how it serves multiple purposes effectively.