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Armadillos are often used in the study of
leprosy, since they, along with mangabey monkeys, rabbits and mice (on
their footpads), are among the few known non-human animal species that
can contract the disease systemically. They are particularly susceptible
due to their unusually low body temperature, which is hospitable to the
leprosy bacterium. The Nine-banded Armadillo also serves science
through its unusual reproductive system, in which four genetically identical
quadruplets are born in each litter. Because they are always genetically
identical, the group of four young provides a good subject for scientific,
behavioral or medical tests that need consistent biological and genetic
makeup in the test subjects. This is the only manifestation of polyembryony
in the class mammalia, and only exists within the genus Dasypus and not
in all armadillos, as is commonly believed. Other species which display
this trait include parasitoid wasps, certain flatworms and various aquatic
invertebrates. Armadillos (mainly Dasypus) make common road kill
due to their habit of jumping to about fender height when startled (such
as by an oncoming car). Wildlife enthusiasts are using the northward
march of the armadillo as an opportunity to educate others about the animals,
which can be a burrowing nuisance to property owners and managers. |
