African White-tailed Mouse
Mystromys albicaudatus
Conservation Status
VulnerableMammalia · Rodentia · Nesomyidae
About
The white-tailed rat also known as the white-tailed mouse, is the only member of the subfamily Mystromyinae in the family Nesomyidae. This species is sometimes placed in the subfamily Cricetinae due to similarities in appearance between the white-tailed rat and hamsters, but molecular phylogenetic studies have confirmed that the two groups are not closely related. The subfamily Mystromyinae is sometimes placed within the family Muridae along with all other subfamilies of muroids.
Fun Fact
This species is sometimes placed in the subfamily Cricetinae due to similarities in appearance between the white-tailed rat and hamsters, but molecular phylogenetic studies have confirmed that the two groups are not closely related.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Endemic to South Africa and Lesotho where it is found in grasslands and shrubby areas.
Diet
Eats vegetable matter such as seeds and has been known to take insects.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Degradation
- Overexploitation
- Invasive Species
- Climate Change