Los Alisos leaf-eared mouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Los Alisos leaf-eared mouse |
|
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Phyllotis
|
| Species: |
alisosiensis
|
The Los Alisos leaf-eared mouse (Phyllotis alisosiensis) is a type of rodent that belongs to the Cricetidae family. It is found in Argentina.
Contents
What is the Los Alisos Leaf-Eared Mouse?
The Los Alisos leaf-eared mouse is a small mammal. It gets its name from its ears, which are shaped a bit like leaves. This helps it hear very well in its natural home. It is a newly discovered species. Scientists first described it in 2010.
Where Does It Live?
This special mouse lives in Argentina, a country in South America. Specifically, it is found in the Los Alisos National Park area. This park is in the Tucumán Province of Argentina. The mouse prefers to live in mountain areas. These places often have forests and rocky spots. It likes habitats that are high up, sometimes over 1,000 meters (about 3,300 feet) above sea level.
What Does It Look Like?
The Los Alisos leaf-eared mouse is a small rodent. It has soft fur, which is usually brownish-gray on its back. Its belly is often lighter, sometimes whitish. The most noticeable feature is its ears. They are quite large compared to its head. These "leaf-like" ears help it listen for predators or other mice. It also has a long tail.
What Does It Eat?
Like many rodents, the Los Alisos leaf-eared mouse likely eats a variety of things. Its diet probably includes seeds, fruits, and insects. It might also eat small plants. These mice are usually active at night. This means they are nocturnal. They search for food when it is dark and cooler.
What About Its Family?
The Los Alisos leaf-eared mouse is part of the Phyllotis genus. This group includes many other leaf-eared mice. All these mice belong to the Cricetidae family. This is a very large family of rodents. It includes hamsters, voles, and New World rats and mice. These animals share common features. They often have strong teeth for gnawing.
Why Is It Special?
This mouse was discovered by scientists Ferro, Martínez, and Barquez in 2010. Finding a new species is always exciting! It helps us learn more about the amazing variety of life on Earth. Its discovery highlights the importance of exploring and protecting natural areas. Especially places like Los Alisos National Park.
Is It in Danger?
The conservation status of the Los Alisos leaf-eared mouse is "Data Deficient" (DD). This means scientists do not have enough information yet. They need more studies to know how many of these mice exist. They also need to know if their numbers are going down. Being "Data Deficient" does not mean it is safe. It means we need to learn more to protect it properly.
See Also
- In Spanish: Pericote de los Alisos para niños
