Abrocoma schistacea (Rodentia: Abrocomidae)

Abstract

Abrocoma schistacea Thomas, 1921 is an abrocomid rodent commonly known as the Sierra del Tontal chinchilla rat. This medium-sized chinchilla rat is a rock specialist that inhabits the pre-Andean foothills of southern San Juan Province (Argentina) within an elevation range of 1,100-2,900 m. Its saxicolous specializations include padded feet with leathery tubercles on the pads. Incisors are large and orthodont; molariform teeth appear broad. A. schistacea is a creosotebush dietary specialist that can be distinguished from other chinchilla rats by living in groups of 3-4 individuals. This species is categorized as of low conservation concern in Argentina but is currently listed as "Data Deficient" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.