DO KANGAROO RATS THRIVE WHEN DRINKING SEA WATER?

Abstract

Three groups of kangaroo rats (Dipodomys merriami) were kept on following diets: (1) Dry soy beans, no water; (2) dry soy beans + sea water (580 m[image]); (3) dry soy beans + fresh water. Group 1 lost wt. and died because sufficient water for excretion of the large amt. of urea was not present. Groups 2 and 3 increased in weight and maintained normal serum concn. of urea end electrolytes, indicating adequate excretion. This proves that kangaroo rats can utilize sea water.