Spilurus

Spilurus is a genus of rodents belonging to the family Cricetidae. These animals are native to South America, inhabiting a range of environments from forests to grasslands. The genus was first described by Oldfield Thomas in 1903.

Spilurus species are generally small to medium-sized rodents, characterized by their long tails, which are often as long as or longer than their bodies. Their fur coloration typically varies, with many species displaying shades of brown or gray on their dorsal side and lighter undersides. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of seeds, fruits, insects, and sometimes small vertebrates.

Little is widely known about the specific ecological roles or behaviors of many Spilurus species due to their often elusive nature and the limited research conducted on them. Conservation statuses vary among the different species within the genus, with some being of least concern while others face threats due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Further research is ongoing to better understand the biodiversity and conservation needs of Spilurus rodents.