What does the term 'altricial' refer to in the context of rodent reproduction?

The term 'altricial' refers to animals that are born in a highly undeveloped state, meaning they are not fully formed and are completely dependent on parental care for survival. In the context of rodent reproduction, this characteristic signifies that newborn rodents, or pups, are generally born hairless, blind, and unable to move about independently. They require intensive parental care, including warmth, nutrition, and protection, until they mature enough to be self-sufficient. This contrasts with terms describing other developmental states, such as 'precocial', which refers to animals born more developed and capable of moving around shortly after birth. Understanding this distinction is crucial for comprehending the reproductive strategies and care requirements of different animal species, particularly rodents.