Scientific name Anotomys leander Rank Species | Phylum Chordata Genus AnotomysThomas, 1906 Higher classification Anotomys | |
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Similar Ichthyomys, Ichthyomyini, Hammond's Oryzomys, Nesoryzomys, Crab‑eating rat | ||
The aquatic rat, Ecuador fish-eating rat, or fish-eating rat (Anotomys leander) is a South American species of semiaquatic rodent in the family Cricetidae. It is the only species in the genus Anotomys. The specific name leander was not explained in the original species description but probably refers to the Greek mythical figure Leander from the story of Hero and Leander.
Its karyotype has been reported to have 2n = 92, but this number apparently actually came from a specimen of Ichthyomys pittieri.
A. leander is endemic to Ecuador and known from the northern part of the country at elevations of 2,860–4,000 m (9,380–13,120 ft) above sea level. This poorly known and rare species occurs along swift, cold streams bordered by subalpine rainforest or grassy paramo. It is threatened by habitat loss and water pollution.
