How many species of rats are there? - briefly
Current taxonomy recognizes roughly 60 distinct species within the genus Rattus. Some authorities extend this count to about 70 when recently described taxa are included.
How many species of rats are there? - in detail
Rattus, the genus commonly identified as true rats, comprises roughly sixty‑four recognized species. Taxonomic revisions based on molecular phylogenetics have refined this count, distinguishing several cryptic lineages that were previously grouped under broader species names. The majority of these taxa inhabit Asia, where the genus originated, but several have expanded their ranges through human activity.
The most widespread members include the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus), the black rat (Rattus rattus), and the Polynesian rat (Rattus exulans). Additional notable species are:
- Rattus argentiventer – native to Southeast Asian lowland forests.
- Rattus fuscipes – found in the highlands of New Guinea.
- Rattus leucopus – restricted to the Philippines.
- Rattus satarae – endemic to the Western Ghats of India.
- Rattus tiomanicus – distributed across the Malay Archipelago.
Beyond the genus Rattus, numerous other rodent families contain species colloquially called “rats.” The family Muridae, subfamily Murinae, hosts over a hundred additional rat-like taxa, such as the giant African pouched rat (Cricetomys gambianus) and various African grass rats (genus Arvicanthis). Including these related forms, the total count of distinct rat species exceeds two hundred.
Geographic distribution reflects both natural habitats and anthropogenic spread. Species adapted to urban environments, particularly R. norvegicus and R. rattus, have achieved a global presence, while others remain confined to specific ecological niches. Conservation status varies: some species are abundant and classified as Least Concern, whereas others, like R. satarae, are listed as Endangered due to habitat loss and limited ranges.