gerbilids
Gerbilids, or gerbils and jirds, are an informal grouping of small- to medium-sized rodents comprising the subfamily Gerbillinae within the family Muridae. They include numerous genera such as Gerbillus, Meriones, Tatera, and Psammomys. Native to Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia, they are adapted to arid and semi-arid habitats.
Morphology and physiology: Gerbilids typically have slender bodies, large eyes and ears, strong hind limbs, and
Behavior and ecology: Many species are burrowers and show crepuscular or nocturnal activity. Social structures vary;
Reproduction and human relevance: Reproduction is generally rapid, with relatively short gestation and multiple young per