MCQ Detailed View

Mice are small rodents known for their rapid reproduction rate, which makes them important both in natural ecosystems and in biological research. One of the most studied aspects of their life cycle is their pregnancy period, also known as the gestation period.

The gestation period of mice is about 19–23 days, which translates to roughly 3 weeks. This short pregnancy period allows mice to reproduce several times a year, with each litter containing 6–12 pups on average. In favorable conditions, a female mouse can produce multiple litters annually, which explains their population growth potential.Female mice reach sexual maturity at around 6–8 weeks of age. Once pregnant, the embryos develop quickly, and within 3 weeks, the female gives birth. The pups are born blind and hairless but grow rapidly, becoming independent in about 3–4 weeks.

This rapid life cycle makes mice extremely adaptable in the wild. Since they are prey to many predators such as cats, snakes, and owls, their fast reproductive ability ensures the survival of their species despite high predation rates.

In scientific research, this short gestation period is highly beneficial. Laboratory mice are one of the most widely used model organisms because scientists can study multiple generations in a short time. Research areas include genetics, embryology, disease studies, and drug testing.

🔎 Comparison with Other Animals:

• 
  

  Mice → ~19–23 days (≈ 3 weeks)

  
  


• 
  

  Rats → ~21–23 days

  
  


• 
  

  Cats → ~9 weeks

  
  


• 
  

  Humans → ~40 weeks

  
  


• 
  

  Elephants → ~22 months

  
  

This comparison highlights how smaller animals generally have much shorter gestation periods than larger mammals.

✅ Key Points to Remember

• 
  

  Mouse gestation = ~3 weeks.

  
  


• 
  

  Litter size = 6–12 pups.

  
  


• 
  

  Sexual maturity reached in 6–8 weeks.

  
  


• 
  

  Used widely in biological & medical research.

  
  

👉 Thus, the correct answer is 3 weeks (Option 3).