Megalomys

Megalomys is a genus of extinct giant rodents that were endemic to the Caribbean islands. These large rodents belonged to the family Cricetidae, which also includes New World rats and mice. The genus Megalomys is known from fossil evidence found on several islands, including Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and the Lesser Antilles.

The most distinctive feature of Megalomys was its size. Some species are estimated to have been as large as a capybara, making them some of the largest rodents ever to have lived. Their exact appearance is not fully known, but skeletal remains suggest they had robust bodies and powerful jaws, adapted for a herbivorous diet. They likely consumed a variety of plant matter, including roots, fruits, and seeds.

The extinction of Megalomys is thought to have occurred shortly after the arrival of humans in the Caribbean. Archaeological evidence suggests that these giant rodents were hunted by early inhabitants for food. Additionally, introduced species, such as dogs and rats, may have preyed upon them or competed for resources. The specific ecological roles of Megalomys in their island ecosystems are not well understood, but their disappearance likely had ripple effects on the local flora and fauna. While several species have been described within the genus, ongoing research continues to refine our understanding of their diversity and evolutionary history.