Dalcerides

Dalcerides is a genus of small to medium-sized, primarily nocturnal, insectivorous mammals native to Africa. The genus includes two species: Dalcerides notatus and Dalcerides pratti. These animals are often referred to as "African mole-rats" or "African mole-rats" due to their mole-like appearance and behavior. They are characterized by their elongated snouts, large eyes, and powerful claws, which they use for digging and foraging.

Dalcerides species inhabit a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and woodlands. They are primarily active at night, spending their days in underground burrows. Their diet consists mainly of insects and other small invertebrates, which they locate using their keen sense of smell. These animals are social, living in colonies that can number up to 20 individuals.

Reproduction in Dalcerides is seasonal, with females giving birth to a single offspring after a gestation period of about 30 days. The young are initially cared for by the mother but eventually join the colony. Dalcerides are known to engage in a form of cooperative breeding, where multiple females in a colony may share the care of a single offspring.

Despite their ecological importance as insectivores, Dalcerides species are not well-studied, and their conservation status is not yet fully understood. However, their ability to adapt to various habitats and their role in controlling insect populations make them an important part of the African ecosystem.