Carpentarian rock rat facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Carpentarian rock rat |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Zyzomys
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| Species: |
palatalis
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The Carpentarian rock rat (scientific name: Zyzomys palatalis) is a type of rodent. It belongs to the Muridae family, which includes many rats and mice. This special rat lives only in Australia.
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How Scientists Named It
Scientists first officially described the Carpentarian rock rat in 1989. A scientist named Darrell Kitchener did this work. He was studying the group of rats called Zyzomys.
The very first rat used to describe the species was a pregnant female. It was found at Wollogorang Station in a deep valley called Echo Gorge. This area had lots of sandstone rocks and special plants like Eucalyptus dichromophloia trees.
The second part of its scientific name, palatalis, comes from Latin. It describes a special shape of its mouth's roof, called the palate.
What It Looks Like
The Carpentarian rock rat is a small, sturdy rodent. Its fur is grey-brown on its back and lighter underneath.
One unique feature is its tail. The base of its tail stores fat, making it look a bit like a carrot. The skin on its tail is very delicate and can be easily hurt if handled. On average, these rats weigh about 120 grams.
Where It Lives
This rock rat lives in a very small area of Australia. It has only been found in five places. These spots are all within the Wollogorang Station area in the Northern Territory. This is close to the border with Queensland, near the Gulf of Carpentaria.
The Carpentarian rock rat needs specific places to live. It prefers rugged sandstone gorges. These areas often have dry monsoon vine-thickets or tropical woodlands. It also needs access to water that is always there.
Protecting the Carpentarian Rock Rat
There are fewer than 2,000 Carpentarian rock rats left in the wild. This makes them a Critically Endangered species. This means they are at a very high risk of disappearing forever.
The biggest danger to these rats comes from hot bushfires. These fires often happen late in the dry season.
Scientists and conservationists are working to protect them. This includes a special program at the Territory Wildlife Park. Here, they have a group of these rats that are bred in captivity. This helps scientists learn more about them. It also ensures there are more rats if they need to be released back into the wild.
