Synonym: Atlas Gundi
Class: Mammals
Order: Rodents
Family: Ctenodactylidae
Genus and species: Ctenodactylus gundi
English Name: Gundi;
Arabic Name: Goundi
Description, habitats and behaviors
The Gundi is a small rodent endemic to North Africa. It is easily distinguished from other rodents by its morphological characteristics: a stocky body, broad head, and extremely short ears, legs, and tail. It measures 16 to 20 cm for a weight of 200 to 300g. Its coat color varies from buff to pinkish-buff on the back and becomes whitish on the belly. This rupicolous (rock-dwelling) species favors rocky environments and mountain flanks of arid desert and semi-desert regions where living conditions are harsh. It enjoys sunbathing on rocks and lives in family groups of varying sizes (3 to 23). It feeds on all the leaves, flowers, seeds, and stems it finds.
Status in the world and in the region
The Atlas Gundi is listed in the "Least Concern" (LC) category, according to the IUCN Red List criteria. The species is considered fairly common and does not currently face great threats in Tunisia. Although it serves as a meal for many carnivores and raptors and is also a victim of persecution, it remains common and very visible in the region.
