Author Archives: Evelyn

Understanding Rock Cavies: Unique Rodents of South America’s Caatinga Biome

Understanding Rock Cavies: Unique Rodents of South America’s Caatinga Biome

Rock cavies (Kerodon rupestris) live in the semi-arid Caatinga region of northeastern Brazil. They are medium-sized rodents, weighing about 1000g and 200-400mm long. They are well-suited to their rocky home and are key to the Caatinga’s ecosystem. As the only mammal found in the Caatinga, rock cavies are interesting. They are related to capybaras and […]

The Role of Rock Cavies in Maintaining South American Biodiversity

The Role of Rock Cavies in Maintaining South American Biodiversity

In South America, the rock cavy is a small rodent that helps keep the region’s biodiversity strong. It is related to guinea pigs and capybaras. Found in different habitats, including the Caatinga biome, it plays a key role in the balance of plants and animals. Rock cavies help plants grow by eating and spreading seeds. […]

The Fascinating World of Rock Cavies: Habitat, Behavior, and Adaptations

The Fascinating World of Rock Cavies: Habitat, Behavior, and Adaptations

In South America’s rugged landscapes, rock cavies (Kerodon rupestris) have won the hearts of many. These rodents, related to guinea pigs and capybaras, live well in rocky areas. They show amazing physical and behavioral traits that help them survive. Join us as we explore the world of rock cavies. We’ll look at their habitat, behavior, […]

How Rock Cavies Survive with Minimal Water in Brazil’s Arid Caatinga Biome

How Rock Cavies Survive with Minimal Water in Brazil’s Arid Caatinga Biome

In Brazil’s Northeast, the Caatinga biome stands out. It’s a dry tropical forest that covers over 330,000 square miles. Here, the rock cavy (Kerodon rupestris) thrives despite the dry conditions. These small mammals have adapted to survive with very little water. The Caatinga’s climate is harsh, with very little rain and long dry spells. Droughts […]

Rock Cavies vs. Capybaras: Comparing Two South American Rodents

Rock Cavies vs. Capybaras: Comparing Two South American Rodents

Rock cavies and capybaras belong to the Caviidae family and are found in South America. Capybaras are the biggest rodents alive, while rock cavies are smaller. They live in different places, like savannas and forests, and are often near water. These rodents are key to their habitats. They have special traits that make them stand […]

Unique Characteristics of Rock Cavies: From Taillessness to Climbing Skills

Unique Characteristics of Rock Cavies: From Taillessness to Climbing Skills

Rock cavies (Kerodon rupestris) are special rodents from eastern Brazil. They belong to the family Caviidae. Known for lacking tails and being great climbers, they are a bit bigger than guinea pigs. They grow from 11.8 to 15.7 inches long and weigh between 31.7 to 35.2 ounces. These mammals live in rocky areas, especially in […]