What are the differences between a rat and a mouse in terms of classification? - briefly
Rats are classified in the genus Rattus, whereas mice belong to the genus Mus; both reside in the family Muridae but occupy separate genera. This taxonomic split reflects distinct species, such as Rattus norvegicus for rats and Mus musculus for mice.
What are the differences between a rat and a mouse in terms of classification? - in detail
Rats and mice belong to the same order (Rodentia) and family (Muridae), but their taxonomic placement diverges at the genus and species levels.
Both groups share the following hierarchy:
- Kingdom : Animalia
- Phylum : Chordata
- Class : Mammalia
- Order : Rodentia
- Family : Muridae
- Subfamily : Murinae
From this point the classification separates:
-
Rats – genus «Rattus»
• Species commonly referenced: «Rattus norvegicus» (Norway rat), «Rattus rattus» (black rat)
• Tribe: Rattini -
Mice – genus «Mus»
• Species commonly referenced: «Mus musculus» (house mouse)
• Tribe: Murini
The distinction therefore rests on tribe, genus, and species. Rats are grouped with other members of the Rattini tribe, while mice belong to the Murini tribe. This divergence reflects differences in morphological traits, ecological niches, and evolutionary lineage, despite their shared higher‑level classification.