What are rats called? - briefly
Members of the genus Rattus are universally referred to as rats. The term “rat” is the standard common name used worldwide.
What are rats called? - in detail
Rats are most commonly referred to as “rats,” a term that applies to several species within the family Muridae. The primary species encountered worldwide are the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) and the black rat (Rattus rattus). In scientific contexts, the genus Rattus designates the group, while the family Muridae encompasses all true rats and mice.
Regional variations add alternative names:
- Norway rat – another name for the brown rat, especially in Europe and North America.
- Ship rat – a colloquial term for the black rat, reflecting its historical association with maritime transport.
- Roof rat – a common name for Rattus rattus when it inhabits attics and upper structures.
- Wharf rat – used in some coastal areas for the black rat.
- Seapunk – a slang term occasionally heard in urban youth culture.
In veterinary and pest‑control literature, the term “rodent” groups rats with other gnawing mammals, but the specific identifier remains “rat.” Zoological classifications list rats as:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Rodentia
- Family: Muridae
- Genus: Rattus
The scientific name provides precision in research, regulation, and disease‑vector studies, distinguishing rats from other rodent species such as mice (Mus spp.) and squirrels (family Sciuridae).