Ctenodactylidae

Ctenodactylidae is a family of rodents native to Africa. The family contains two living genera, Ctenodactylus and Pectinator, and one extinct genus, Massoutiera. These rodents are commonly known as gundis. Gundis are small, stocky animals with short tails, large eyes, and strong claws. They are well-adapted to arid and semi-arid environments and are found in rocky habitats such as mountains and canyons.

The diet of gundis consists primarily of grasses, herbs, and other plant matter. They are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and live in social groups called colonies. These colonies can consist of several individuals and are typically found in burrows or rock crevices for shelter. Communication within colonies is thought to involve vocalizations and scent marking.

Reproduction in gundis involves litters of one to five young. The young are precocial, meaning they are relatively well-developed at birth and can move around shortly after. Their lifespan in the wild is estimated to be around four years.

Gundis play a role in their ecosystems as herbivores, influencing plant growth and providing a food source for predators. The family Ctenodactylidae is believed to have originated in Africa and has a fossil record dating back to the Oligocene epoch. Some species of gundis are considered to be of conservation concern due to habitat loss and other human-related threats.