Paca

Pacas, scientifically known as Cuniculus, are intriguing herbivorous rodents indigenous to South and Central America. Often referred to as "gibnuts" or "royal rats" these creatures are the sole representatives of the family Cuniculidae. They are distinguished by their large size, unique lateral markings, short ears, and nearly invisible tails. Researchers are examining their potential as a high-value food source in tropical regions.

Pacas evolved in South America and migrated to North America following the Great American Interchange. Initially classified alongside agoutis, they were later assigned to their own family due to distinctive differences in toe number, skull shape, and coat patterns.

These medium-sized rodents measure between 50-77 cm in length, excluding their short tails, and weigh between 6-14 kg. They bear a striking resemblance to guinea pigs, featuring square-shaped heads, small ears, and spotted or striped markings on their bodies. One of their unique attributes is the presence of resonating chambers in their cheeks, enabling them to produce loud growling sounds.

Pacas thrive in a variety of habitats, including rainforests and cloud forests, particularly near water sources. They are adept swimmers and can remain submerged for up to 15 minutes. Pacas exhibit activity both during the day and at night and reside in burrows that can extend up to 3 meters deep with multiple exits.

Their diet consists of fruits, leaves, buds, flowers, fungi, and occasionally insects. Pacas play a crucial role in seed dispersal and possess special adaptations for opening hard-shelled fruits. Interestingly, they are coprophagous, meaning they re-ingest their fecal pellets to better absorb nutrients.

Reproduction in pacas involves a gestation period of 114-119 days, typically resulting in a single offspring. The young are precocial, being born with fur and open eyes. They reach sexual maturity between 6-12 months, and mating usually takes place in water. Paca mothers are very attentive to their young, initiating the weaning process after about six weeks.

Pacas are found from southern Mexico to northern Argentina, primarily in rainforests near water sources. There are two species: the lowland paca (Cuniculus paca) and the mountain paca (Cuniculus taczanowskii). The mountain paca is characterized by longer, darker fur and inhabits higher elevations in the Andes and Páramo grasslands.