Reproduction in the Australian Tree-rat Conilurus penicillatus (Rodentia: Muridae)

Abstract

Breeding in C. penicillatus extends over a period of at least 4 months. Reproductive maturity is correlated with general body size, and few instances of sexual quiescence were found among the adults in our midwinter sampling. The usual litter size is two and the sex ratio, one to one. This rat is polyoestrous, a spontaneous ovulator, and appears to undergo a postpartum oestrus.