Anita's leaf-eared mouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Anita's leaf-eared mouse |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Phyllotis
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| Species: |
anitae
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Anita's leaf-eared mouse (Phyllotis anitae) is a type of rodent in the Cricetidae family, which includes mice and hamsters. This small mouse was found in Tucumán Province in northwestern Argentina. It lives in alder forests high up in the Southern Andean Yungas ecoregion, on the eastern side of the Andes mountains.
This mouse lives on the ground and is active at night. It was named after an American zoologist, Anita K. Pearson. Scientists believe it is most closely related to the Bunchgrass Leaf-eared Mouse.
Contents
Discovering Anita's Leaf-Eared Mouse
Where Was It Found?
Anita's leaf-eared mouse was first discovered in the beautiful, green forests of northwestern Argentina. Specifically, it was found in Tucumán Province. This area is known for its tall alder trees.
The mouse lives in a special type of forest called the Southern Andean Yungas ecoregion. An ecoregion is a large area of land or water that has its own unique mix of natural communities. This particular ecoregion is located on the eastern slopes of the mighty Andes mountain range.
When Was It Discovered?
This species was officially described by scientists in 2007. This means that while it might have been living in the forests for a long time, it was only recently identified and named by researchers.
Who Is Anita?
The mouse was named after Anita K. Pearson. She was an American zoologist, which is a scientist who studies animals. Naming a new species after a person is a way to honor their contributions to science.
What Makes This Mouse Special?
Its Lifestyle
Anita's leaf-eared mouse is a terrestrial animal. This means it spends its life on the ground, rather than climbing trees or living underground. It is also nocturnal, which means it is most active during the night. It likely searches for food and moves around under the cover of darkness.
Family Connections
Scientists study the features and DNA of animals to understand how they are related. They have found that Anita's leaf-eared mouse seems to be most closely related to the Bunchgrass Leaf-eared Mouse. This suggests they share a common ancestor and similar characteristics.
See also
In Spanish: Pericote tucumano para niños
