The fat sand rat (Psammomys obesus)
Habitat, appearance, diet, reproduction
The fat sand rat (Psammomys obesus) inhabits sandy deserts from Algeria to Saudi Arabia. Its body length ranges from 14 to 18.5 cm, tail length from 12 to 15 cm, and weight from 80 to 150 g. The species is found only in close proximity to succulent plants in the Amaranth family, which are its main food source.
The fat sand rat (Psammomys obesus) is a colonial species that lives in a burrow system built in soil or sand. It is active both during the day and at night. The female gives birth to 3 to 5 cubs several times a year.
