Cuscomys

Cuscomys is a genus of rodents in the family Abrocomidae. The genus was described in 2003 and contains two species, both native to the Andes Mountains of Peru. The name Cuscomys is derived from the Quechua word "Cusco," referring to the region where the animals were discovered, and the Greek word "mys," meaning mouse.

The two recognized species are Cuscomys obei and Cuscomys ashaninka. Cuscomys obei, also known as the Machu Picchu chinchilla rat, was first described in 1912 but was only recognized as belonging to its own genus in 2003. Cuscomys ashaninka, the Asháninka chinchilla rat, was described in 2003. Both species are relatively large for rodents, with long, bushy tails. They have soft, dense fur, typically reddish-brown to gray in color. Their diet consists primarily of plant matter, including grasses, leaves, and roots.

These rodents are found at high elevations in the cloud forests of the Andes. They are thought to be primarily nocturnal and live in burrows. Information on their reproductive biology and social structure is limited due to their elusive nature and remote habitat. Both species are considered to be of conservation concern. Cuscomys obei is listed as endangered, and Cuscomys ashaninka is listed as vulnerable by the IUCN, primarily due to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by deforestation and agricultural expansion. Further research is needed to fully understand their ecology and to develop effective conservation strategies.