Mammals
Chinese Hamster
Cricetulus griseus · also called striped hamster, striped-back hamster
Slim and mouse-like, with a dark stripe down its back, the Chinese hamster looks like a modest steppe rodent, yet its cells are used around the world to make medicines.
Overview
The Chinese hamster, Cricetulus griseus, is a Least Concern hamster native to the steppe and semi-desert of northern China and Mongolia. Its slim build, long tail, and role as the source of CHO cells make it one of the most scientifically important small mammals ever studied.
A small animal with a large legacy
Few hamsters have shaped medicine as much as this one, whose cells continue to be used to produce biological drugs.
Status
Least Concern, not considered at risk in its natural range.
Chinese Hamster: common questions
What are CHO cells?
They are cells derived from the ovary of the Chinese hamster, and they are widely used to manufacture many modern biological medicines.
Is the Chinese hamster the same as the Syrian hamster?
No, the Chinese hamster is a slimmer, longer-tailed species from northern China and Mongolia, while the Syrian hamster is a larger species from the Middle East.
What does the Chinese hamster eat?
It is an omnivore that feeds on seeds, grains, and plants, along with insects.
Where is the Chinese hamster found?
It is native to steppe and semi-desert habitat in parts of northern China and Mongolia.