Oryzomyini

Oryzomyini is a tribe of New World rodents belonging to the subfamily Sigmodontinae. This tribe encompasses a diverse group of mice, often referred to as rice rats, and is one of the most speciose tribes within the subfamily. Oryzomyini rodents are found throughout the Americas, ranging from the southern United States to South America. Their habitats are varied, including forests, grasslands, swamps, and savannas, though many species are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic environments.

The physical characteristics of Oryzomyini species vary widely, reflecting their ecological diversity. Generally, they are medium-sized rodents with long tails, often longer than their head and body length. Their fur coloration typically ranges from brown to grayish, with paler undersides. Many species possess adaptations for a semi-aquatic lifestyle, such as specialized feet or dense fur. Their diet also varies, but commonly includes seeds, fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.

The phylogenetic relationships within Oryzomyini have been a subject of extensive research, with molecular and morphological data contributing to a better understanding of their evolutionary history. The tribe is generally divided into several genera, though the exact composition and relationships between these genera are still being refined. Conservation statuses for Oryzomyini species range from least concern to critically endangered, with habitat loss and fragmentation being significant threats to many populations.