Scientific Name of Rat

Rats are medium-sized rodents that belong to the order Rodentia. Most rats fall under the genus Rattus, such as the black rats (Rattus rattus). Other genera include Bandicota, Neotama and Dipodomys.

Most rats are opportunistic feeders, living near human settlements. As a result, most are seen as household pests and even vectors of diseases such as the bubonic plague. Ecologically, some species of rats are considered as an invasive species, which cause the extinction of native species of plants or animals by either preying on them or competing for food.

However, rats also have been kept as pets – especially the brown rats (Rattus norvegicus). Pet rats are also friendly and can be taught to perform certain tasks or behaviour. Furthermore, rats are selectively bred for the same purpose – giving rise to rats with different colours and fur types.

Rats are also used as subjects of scientific research and experimental studies. Interestingly, rats have a keen sense of smell and hence are used to detect landmines. Rats have also been used to sniff out gunpowder residue – with police in the Netherlands claiming that these animals are cheaper and easier to train than dogs. Rats are also used in the entertainment industry – often in magic acts, television shows, movies and music videos.

Also Read:

• Discover the Scientific Name of Black Rat
• Scientific Names of the Most Common Animals and Plants
• Mammalia – Characteristics and Classification Of Mammals
• Infectious Diseases: Types, Causes, Symptoms And Preventions
• Diseases – Classification, Types and Causes of Diseases

Explore more interesting topics on rats or other fascinating animals by registering with BYJU’S Biology