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A tenrec (/ ˈ t ɛ n r ɛ k /) is a mammal belonging to any species within the afrotherian family Tenrecidae, which is endemic to Madagascar. [2] Tenrecs are a very diverse group; as a result of adaptive radiation and exhibit convergent evolution , [ 3 ] some resemble hedgehogs , shrews , opossums , rats , and mice .
Range maps are provided wherever possible; if a range map is not available, a description of the afrosoricid's range is provided. Ranges are based on the IUCN Red List for that species unless otherwise noted. All extinct species or subspecies listed alongside extant species went extinct after 1500 CE, and are indicated by a dagger symbol "†".
Tenrecinae is a tenrec subfamily endemic to the island of Madagascar. [1] It contains the largest species in the family, Tenrec ecaudatus. [2] All members of the genus possess spines, analogous to those of hedgehogs, for defense against predators.
Most species are also nocturnal and have poor eyesight. Their whiskers are rather sensitive and they can detect very minute vibrations in the ground to locate their prey. Unusual among placentals , afrosoricids have a cloaca , which is the rear orifice that functions as the opening for the urinary , digestive , and reproductive tracts.
The mole-like rice tenrec (Oryzorictes hova), also known as the fossorial tenrec or hova rice tenrec, is a species of mammal in the tenrec family. Like all other tenrecs, it is endemic to Madagascar. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist forests, swamps, freshwater lakes, and irrigated or seasonally flooded agricultural land. [2]
The large-eared tenrec (Geogale aurita) is a species of mammal in the family Tenrecidae. It is the only species in the monotypic genus Geogale, and the only member of the subfamily Geogalinae. [1] It is endemic to Madagascar where its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests and shrubland.
The tailless tenrec (Tenrec ecaudatus), also known as the common tenrec, is a species of mammal in the family Tenrecidae.It is the only member of the genus Tenrec.Native to Madagascar, it is also found on the Comoros, Mauritius, Réunion, and Seychelles island groups, where it has been purposely introduced. [2]
The naked-nosed shrew tenrec (Microgale gymnorhyncha) is a species of mammal in the family Tenrecidae. It is endemic to Madagascar . Its natural habitats are subtropical and tropical moist lowland and montane forests.