Tylomyinae

Tylomyinae is a subfamily of rodents within the family Cricetidae. It comprises two extant genera, Tylomys and Ototylomys, and is recognized as a distinct group within the broader Cricetidae by many modern classifications. In earlier classifications, tylomines were placed within Sigmodontinae, but molecular phylogenetic studies have supported treating Tylomyinae as a separate subfamily.

Geographic distribution and habitat of tylomyines span from southern Mexico through Central America and into parts of northwestern South America. They inhabit a variety of forested environments, including tropical and montane forests, and are often associated with trees and dense vegetation where they navigate a largely arboreal or scansorial lifestyle.

Morphology and ecology describe tylomyines as medium-sized rodents with relatively long tails adapted to life among branches. They are typically nocturnal and elusive, and their diets are diverse, including fruits, seeds, and invertebrates. Reproductive biology is not extensively documented across all species, but like many cricetids, they are presumed to have multiple offspring per litter.

Taxonomy and research emphasize that Tylomyinae represents a distinct evolutionary lineage within Cricetidae. Ongoing studies use both morphological characteristics and genetic data to resolve the relationships of Tylomys, Ototylomys, and related taxa, and to clarify the historical placement of tylomyines within muroid rodents. Conservation status varies by species, with habitat loss posing a threat to some populations.