What are large rats called? - briefly
The designation for unusually large members of the genus Rattus is “giant rat.” In scientific texts, oversized brown rats or species such as the Polynesian rat (Rattus exulans) are referred to by this term.
What are large rats called? - in detail
Large members of the genus Rattus are commonly referred to as “giant rats” or “large rats.” The most frequently cited examples include:
- Norwegian rat (Rattus norvegicus) – adult body length 20–25 cm, tail 18–25 cm, weight up to 500 g; also known as the brown rat, common in urban and agricultural environments worldwide.
- Black rat (Rattus rattus) – slightly smaller, body length 16–20 cm, tail 18–22 cm, weight up to 300 g; historically associated with ships and human settlements.
- Cane rat (Rattus cane) – found in Southeast Asia, body length 22–30 cm, weight 350–500 g; distinguished by its robust build and preference for sugar‑cane fields.
- Giant rat of New Guinea (Uromys porculus) – one of the largest murine rodents, body length 30–35 cm, tail 20–25 cm, weight exceeding 1 kg; inhabits rainforest floor litter.
- Rattus argentiventer – native to the Philippines, body length up to 28 cm, weight around 600 g; recognized by its silvery‑gray ventral fur.
Taxonomically, these rodents belong to the family Muridae, subfamily Murinae. Their size results from a combination of genetic factors, abundant food sources, and reduced predation pressure in certain habitats. Morphologically, larger specimens exhibit proportionally thicker skulls, stronger jaw muscles, and longer hind limbs, adaptations that support increased foraging range and defensive capabilities.
Ecologically, big rats play roles as seed dispersers, prey for larger carnivores, and vectors for zoonotic diseases. Their reproductive capacity remains high; females can produce several litters per year, each containing up to 12 offspring, which contributes to rapid population growth when conditions are favorable.
In scientific literature, the term “giant rat” is applied to any Rattus species exceeding typical size thresholds (body length > 25 cm, weight > 400 g). The designation is not a formal taxonomic rank but a descriptive label used in field reports, pest management guidelines, and zoological surveys.