What is the pregnancy period of mouse?

The gestation period of a mouse, from conception to birth, is relatively short compared to many other mammals. The average pregnancy period for a mouse is around 19 to 21 days, although this can vary slightly depending on the strain and individual mouse.

Here's a breakdown of the stages of mouse pregnancy:

1. Implantation: After fertilization occurs, the fertilized egg implants in the uterine wall of the mother mouse, typically within 5-6 days of conception.

2. Embryonic Development: During the first half of pregnancy (approximately 10-12 days), the embryo undergoes rapid development. Organs and body systems form, and the fetus starts to take shape.

3. Fetal Development: In the second half of pregnancy (approximately 12-21 days), the fetus continues to grow and mature. The limbs, digits, and fur begin to develop.

4. Birth: At the end of the pregnancy period, the mother mouse gives birth to a litter of pups. The litter size can vary from 5 to 12 pups or even more, depending on the strain and age of the mother.

It's worth noting that mice are known for their high reproductive rates, and they can have several litters throughout their lifespan. They can reach sexual maturity as early as 6-8 weeks of age, and the females can have consecutive pregnancies with short intervals between them.

The rapid reproductive cycle and short pregnancy period of mice make them a valuable model organism for studying developmental biology, genetics, and reproductive health in mammals.