Kingdom Animalia Order Rodentia Genus Geomys Higher classification Geomys | Phylum Chordata Family Geomyidae Scientific name Geomys tropicalis Rank Species | |
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Similar Geomys, Texas pocket gopher, Gopher, Mammal, Alcorn's pocket gopher | ||
The tropical pocket gopher (Geomys tropicalis) is a species of rodent in the family Geomyidae. It is endemic to Mexico. Its natural habitat is hot deserts. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Contents
Description
The tropical pocket gopher is cinnamon to brown on its back and head. Its underparts have white fur, and its tail is mostly naked. They have large front feet, along with small eyes and a thick body. Males are on average larger than females.
Distribution and habitat
The distribution of the tropical pocket gopher is restricted to a small area near the Southeastern tip of Tamaulipas, Mexico.
Genetics
The tropical pocket gopher has a diploid number of 38. This is low compared to similar species. This could help them adapt to their restricted habitat. Since their numbers are low there is a high risk of them losing too much genetic variability to survive.