Growth and circadian rhythms relative to diet in the laboratory mouse

Abstract

This thesis records the results of experiments on the two groups of laboratory mice maintained for approximately 18 months. One group of mice was fed Proso millet seed (Panicum miliacëum) the other a proprietary pellet food compounded specifically for chicken. The diets differed significantly in carbohydrate content and protein content. This difference was reflected in differences in their general growth pattern and in the behaviour pattern of their feeding, drinking and wheel-running activity. Present results indicate that the high carbohydrate content of the millet seed is the most likely component of the diet to be responsible for these differences. There is some evidence to suggest that while Proso millet is satisfactory in maintaining general growth at a high level, it is not as satisfactory as the chicken pellet for maintaining breeding capacity and lactation.