Oryzomys palustris

Oryzomys Palustris

The Oryzomys palustris, commonly known as the Marsh Rice Rat, is a species of rodent in the family Cricetidae. It is found in the United States, particularly in marshy areas near the coast. The species is named for its preference for habitats of wild rice Oryza.

Taxonomy

The Marsh Rice Rat is a member of the genus Oryzomys and the family Cricetidae. It was first described by naturalist John Bachman in 1837. The species is monotypic, meaning it has no recognized subspecies.

Description

The Marsh Rice Rat is a medium-sized rodent, with a head and body length of 110 to 150 mm, and a tail length of 100 to 130 mm. It has a grayish-brown fur on its upper parts and a white or gray underbelly. The species is semi-aquatic and has partially webbed hind feet.

Distribution and habitat

The Marsh Rice Rat is found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States, from New Jersey to Texas, and inland along the Mississippi River. It inhabits marshy areas, particularly those with stands of wild rice.

Behavior and diet

The Marsh Rice Rat is nocturnal and semi-aquatic. It is an excellent swimmer and often forages in water. Its diet consists primarily of seeds and insects, but it also eats small crustaceans and mollusks.

Reproduction

The Marsh Rice Rat breeds throughout the year, with peak breeding activity in the spring and fall. Females can have up to four litters per year, with an average of three to six pups per litter.

Conservation status

The Marsh Rice Rat is listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN. However, it is threatened by habitat loss due to urban development and sea level rise.

See also

• List of mammals of the United States
• List of rodents