The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) has certain characteristics by which it can make unique contributions to psychological research, namely, an exposed embryological development suitable for developmental studies, and a characteristic marsupial brain suitable for “split-brain” studies of relationships between the two cerebral hemispheres and comparative learning. Disadvantages to using opossums, such as their low resistance to parasites and disease, viciousness, and nocturnal habits, have largely been overcome as the result of recent interdisciplinary efforts.
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