Vesiripuli

Vesiripuli, also known as capybara, is the largest rodent in the world. Native to South America, it inhabits grasslands and dense forests near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, swamps, and marshes. These semi-aquatic mammals are highly social animals, typically living in groups of 10 to 20 individuals. Their name, "vesiripuli," is derived from indigenous languages and translates roughly to "water grass."

Physically, vesiripulis are characterized by their robust, barrel-shaped bodies, short heads, and reddish-brown to greyish fur. They possess webbed feet, which aid them in swimming, and their eyes, ears, and nostrils are located high on their heads, allowing them to remain mostly submerged while keeping these senses above water. They are herbivores, feeding primarily on grasses and aquatic plants. Their large incisors are continuously growing, which helps to wear them down as they chew tough vegetation.

Vesiripulis are an important part of their ecosystems, serving as a food source for predators like jaguars, anacondas, and caimans. They are generally considered docile and can become accustomed to human presence. In some regions, they are raised for their meat and hide. Their conservation status is generally considered least concern, though local populations can be affected by habitat loss and hunting.