Ethiopian Water Rat
Nilopegamys plumbeus
Conservation Status
Critically EndangeredMammalia · Rodentia · Muridae
About
The Ethiopian amphibious rat, also known as the Ethiopian water mouse, is an insectivorous and semiaquatic species of rodent in the monotypic genus Nilopegamys of the family Muridae. There has only been one known specimen. It was found along the Lesser Abay River near its source at an altitude of 2600 m in the highlands of northwestern Ethiopia in 1928. N. plumbeus is considered to be the most aquatically adapted African murid; its unusually large brain is thought to be one consequence of this lifestyle. The species is considered to be critically endangered or possibly extinct, since its habitat has been severely damaged by overgrazing and monoculture.
Fun Fact
The rat belongs to the family Muridae and has the largest cranial capacity of any African muroid ever sampled.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Live in wetlands such as marsh rice rat or the European water vole.
Diet
To be updated
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Destruction
- Pollution
- Invasive Species
- Over-Collection
- Climate Change