GENETIC DIFFERENCES IN THE SOCIAL BEHAVIOR OF INBRED STRAINS OF MICE

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Abstract
The fighting behavior of males of several inbred stocks of house mice belonging to the Jackson Laboratory was studied, and indications of genetic differences were found between all except certain closely related strains. The C57 blacks (subline 10) and C3H agouti strains showed wide differences, little variability, and no overlap under the conditions tested. These, together with the C (Bagg) albinos are concluded to be well adapted for use in bio-sociological research. The basic characteristics of the three strains appear to be: a. C57—high degree of activity, tendency to make close contact with physical environment and other mice, and, under certain conditions, pacific behavior. b. C3H—moderate degree of activity, tendency to avoid close contacts, easily evoked hair-fluffing reaction. c. C—moderate activity and aggressiveness, no extreme behavior traits. These mice are widely different from human beings in social activity but have certain special research uses because of their small size and predictable behavior.

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