Determinants for the Diet of Captive Agoutis (Dasyprocta spp.)

A critical factor affecting the dietary requirements of captive Dasyprocta species is their previous classification as a frugivore when there is evidence that supports classification as an omnivore. Other factors relevant to feeding captive Dasyprocta include the gastrointestinal tract anatomy, endogenous ascorbic acid, scatter-hoarding behavior, metabolic rate, apparent dietary requirements, life stage nutrition, diabetes, and dental caries and pathology. This article presents information currently available in the literature relevant to the dietary needs of captive Dasyprocta species.