Saimiri sciureus as an experimental animal

Recent Primate research projejcts utilizing the squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) established the need for basic biological data concerning this animal. Included in this present report are discussions of laboratory maintenance, dietary requirements, and antihelminthic thearpy. Original data on birth weight (90–100 gm) and the gestation period (167 ± 2 days) are recorded. The weight distribution of a colony of adult animals maintained in captivity for a period of three years is included. Fresh organ weights from ten animals obtained at necropsy were recorded for brain, pituitary, heart, lungs, spleen, liver, pancreas, kidney, adrenals, and gonads. Body weight, body length, and the length of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, small intestine, cecum, and colon were recorded. Determination of hematologic values included erythrocyte and leukocyte counts, hemoglobin and hematocrit determination and differential count of white blood cells. Various blood chemistry values are included. Data on heart rate, respiratory rate and body temperature of animals restrained for a 24 hour period are tabulated. Environmental stress and neuroanatomical studies using the squirrel monkey are reviewed.