Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

After the animal room has entered its dark cycle, lights should not be turned on because:

1. It can cause animals to become aggressive

2. Physiological changes can occur in the animals

3. It disrupts their feeding schedule

4. It can cause stress among the animals

The correct answer is: Physiological changes can occur in the animals

The correct answer highlights the importance of maintaining a consistent light-dark cycle for laboratory animals, which is crucial for their well-being and physiological health. Animals have innate biological rhythms known as circadian rhythms, which are influenced by light exposure. When lights are turned on after the dark cycle has commenced, it can lead to physiological changes, such as disruptions in hormone levels, metabolism, and overall physiological homeostasis. These changes can adversely affect the animals' development, reproductive health, and stress levels. Maintaining the appropriate lighting schedule is fundamental to ensuring optimal animal care and research outcomes, as it allows animals to undertake natural behaviors and processes that are essential for their health and well-being. This understanding is integral for laboratory animal technicians to provide an environment that supports the best possible conditions for the animals in their care.