The rodent considered to be the largest in the world is the capybara. It is truly enormous since it can even reach 50 kg as an adult. An animal this big being called a rodent really goes beyond all logic.
Having such a large body requires him to eat a lot. According to observations made and studies carried out, it is a herbivore and feeds mainly on aquatic plants and grasses. Yes, the capybara is a pretty good swimmer. It even happens that farmers hold him responsible for the destruction of their crops, particularly rice, sugar cane, watermelon and corn.
Furthermore, men like to use fur in their activities because of its appearance and texture.
Capybara: The world’s largest rodent could be threatened
Because of its large size and imposing weight, the majority of capybaras’ predators are found on dry land. We mainly find big cats there, notably jaguars and pumas. He cannot easily get rid of this natural predator that has always hunted him. The solution to protect itself is adopted by the male who uses an odorous substance that he secretes to mark his territory. If this fails, the main escape route is water.
But this is only a high-risk solution since despite its swimming abilities, it is not safe from other marine predators such as the anaconda and the caiman. Certainly, the species is not yet on the red list but this problem should not be considered a minor concern as the IUCN does.
The two pairs of incisors perhaps allow the animal to deal great blows and inflict enormous wounds, but will it really be enough in the future?
And you, did you know what the biggest rodent in the world was?
*Updated 23 July 2024
