Geomyoidea facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Geomyoid rodentsTemporal range: Lower Eocene – Recent
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| Kangaroo rat | |
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Geomyoidea
Bonaparte, 1845
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†Eomyidae |
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Geomyoidea is a group of rodents that includes pocket gophers and kangaroo rats. It also includes their ancient relatives found as fossils. These animals might look different, but scientists agree they belong to the same large family group.
About Geomyoid Rodents
Even though gophers and kangaroo rats don't look much alike, they are closely related. Scientists agree on this because they have studied many things. They look at how the animals are built (their morphology). They also study old fossils and look at the animals' DNA. Where these animals live around the world (their biogeography) also helps scientists understand their family ties.
Where Geomyoids Live
Today, most geomyoid rodents live in North America. Some have moved into South America over time. This happened during a period called the Great American Interchange. This was when land bridges formed, letting animals move between the two continents. Older types of geomyoids have been found as fossils in many parts of the world, especially in a supercontinent called Laurasia.
Geomyoids and Their Relatives
Scientists have different ideas about which other rodents are related to geomyoids.
Some experts think geomyoids are related to animals like squirrels, beavers, and mountain beavers.
Other experts believe geomyoids might be more closely related to mice, jerboas, and perhaps dormice. Scientists continue to study these relationships to learn more.
See also
In Spanish: Geomyoidea para niños
