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Uspallata Chinchilla Rat

Uspallata Chinchilla Rat

Argentina
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Status
Data Deficient

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Desert, Mountain

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
wild seeds, nuts, tender roots, and vegetation grains

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
nocturnal

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Habitat. Arid Monte Desert of the pre-Andean foothills at elevations above 1880 m (mean annual rainfall of ¢. 150 mm), with grasses (Stipa, Poaceae), composites (Gaillardia and Trichocline, Asteraceae), herbs (Atriplex undulata, Amaranthaceae), and shrubs such as Bulnesia retama, Larrea divaricata, and L. cunefolia (all Zygophyllaceae), Verbena (Verbenaceae), Baccharis (Asteraceae), and Lycium sp. (Solanaceae). The Uspallata Chinchilla Rat occurs in areas of rocky gulches and cliffs, where it occupiesfissures 5 - 10 m up on rock faces.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Uspallata Chinchilla Rat is officially designated as Data Deficient. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to desert, mountain, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of wild seeds, nuts, tender roots, and vegetation grains. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a nocturnal activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 3 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of Uspallata Chinchilla Rat.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeArgentina
Habitat RangeDesert, Mountain
Lifespan3 Yrs
StatusData Deficient
ScientificAbrocoma uspallata
Registry Info
Lifespan3 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilyAbrocomidae