Grizzled colilargo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Grizzled colilargo |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Oligoryzomys
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| Species: |
griseolus
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The Oligoryzomys griseolus, also known as the grizzled colilargo or the grayish pygmy rice rat, is a small rodent species. It belongs to the Oligoryzomys genus within the Cricetidae family, which includes many types of mice and rats. This little animal lives in the Andes mountains, specifically in parts of Venezuela and nearby Colombia.
Contents
What is the Grizzled Colilargo?
The grizzled colilargo is a type of rice rat. These rats get their name because they often live in areas where rice is grown or near water sources. They are usually small, quick, and good at hiding. The word "grizzled" in its name likely refers to the color of its fur, which might be a mix of gray and brown, giving it a speckled or "grizzled" look.
Where Does It Live?
This pygmy rice rat makes its home in the Andes mountain range. The Andes stretch across South America, offering many different environments. The grizzled colilargo is found in specific regions of Colombia and Venezuela. These areas often have forests, grasslands, or agricultural lands where the rats can find food and shelter.
Scientific Classification
Every living thing has a scientific name that helps scientists around the world know exactly what animal they are talking about. The grizzled colilargo's full scientific name is Oligoryzomys griseolus.
- Oligoryzomys is its genus, which is a group of very similar species.
- griseolus is its specific species name, making it unique.
This species was first described by a scientist named Wilfred Hudson Osgood in 1912.
Its Genetic Makeup
Scientists study the karyotype of animals, which is like looking at a map of their chromosomes. Chromosomes are tiny structures inside cells that carry all the genetic information. For the grizzled colilargo, its karyotype shows it has 62 chromosomes in each cell (written as 2n = 62). This number is important for understanding how different species are related and how they evolve.
See also
In Spanish: Oligoryzomys griseolus para niños
