Light exposure impairs hematological characteristics and oxidative stress markers in male African giant pouched rat ( Cricetomys gambianus ) reared in captivity

African giant pouched rat (AGPR) is widely used both to conduct research projects and for meat consumption. However, being a nocturnal animal, light exposure requires a specific attention in order to improve their rearing environment. The study aimed to appreciate the effects of light exposure on hematological and oxidative stress parameters in AGPR bred in captivity. Twenty adult males AGPR weighing 945 ± 171 g were randomly allocated into four photoperiod regimes: 0L/24D, 12L/12D, 18L/06D, and 24L/0D. Housed singly during 56 days, animals received food and water ad libitum. At the end of the trial, blood and serum were collected for studied parameters analysis. The study revealed a significant ( p < 0.05) increase of the number of red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), hemoglobin (HGB), and hematocrit (HCT) in animals kept in the darkness condition compared to those reared under extended photoperiods. Except for malondialdehyde (MDA) level which was not affected by photoperiod, catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased significantly ( p < 0.05) for any light exposure up to 12 h per day. In conclusion, photoperiod affects the most hematological characteristics measured and has stressful effects in AGPR. This new knowledge provides a relevant information for the rearing environment of African giant pouched rat.