Rodent

Rodents are a group of mammals characterized by two continuously growing incisors in the upper and lower jaws which must be kept short by gnawing. They are the most diversified mammalian order and live in various terrestrial habitats, including human-made environments.

Characteristics

Rodents have two incisors in the upper as well as in the lower jaw which grow continuously and must be kept worn down by gnawing; this is the origin of the term "rodent". In many species, the molars are relatively large, intricately structured, and highly cusped or ridged.

Evolution

The order Rodentia is believed to have emerged in Asia. Rodents other than squirrels and dormice are among the most adaptable of mammals, and species colonize a wide range of habitats.

Classification

Rodents are classified into three broad groups based on the structure of the jaw muscles and associated skull structures: Sciuromorpha, Myomorpha, and Hystricomorpha.

Behavior

Rodents have advanced cognitive abilities. They can quickly learn to avoid poisoned baits, which makes them difficult pests to deal with.

As pests

Rodents have been known to spread disease. They can be very destructive to crops and property.

As pets

Some species of rodents are kept as pets, such as guinea pigs, hamsters, and gerbils.

See also

• List of rodents
• Rodent of unusual size

References

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