Tracking growth in opossum (Didelphis marsupialis) rehabilitation: a focus on nutritional interventions

During rehabilitation in the sanctuaries, individuals of the common opossum (didelphis marsupialis) must achieve certain characteristics, both physical and behavioral, so that they can be released. These characteristics can be assessed periodically through veterinary examinations and physical measurements, such as by the use of morphometry. In many species, especially for the species Didelphis marsupialis, this field is not yet well studied. Consequently, it is very important to be able to find which morphological changes need to be observed to determine whether or not an animal is growing properly and can be finally released into the wild. In particular, my study focuses on the study and analysis of the impact and influence age-related nutrition has on the growth pattern of these animals.