Laotian Rock Rat

Laonastes aenigmamus

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Rodentia · Diatomyidae

About

The Laotian rock rat or kha-nyou, sometimes called the "rat-squirrel", is a species of rodent found in the Khammouan region of Laos. The species was first described in a 2005 article by Paulina Jenkins and coauthors, who considered the animal to be so distinct from all living rodents, they placed it in a new family, Laonastidae. It is in the monotypic genus Laonastes.

Fun Fact

The discovery of the Laotian rock rat means an 11 million-year gap exists in the fossil record where no diatomyids have been found.

Quick Facts

Habitat

To be updated

Diet

Eat insects, as well, but probably not in high abundance.

Lifespan

To be updated

Threats

Habitat Change
Human Disturbance

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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