What does a water rat eat? - briefly
Water rats consume mainly aquatic insects, crustaceans, small fish, and occasional plant material such as seeds and algae. Seasonal shifts increase plant matter intake when animal prey becomes less available.
What does a water rat eat? - in detail
The water rat’s diet consists primarily of animal prey captured in freshwater habitats. Aquatic insects such as beetle larvae, mayfly nymphs, and mosquito larvae form the core of the intake. Crustaceans, especially freshwater shrimp and small crabs, are regularly consumed. Small fish, tadpoles, and amphibian eggs provide additional protein sources. Mollusks, including freshwater snails and bivalves, are also taken when available.
Vegetal matter supplements the animal component. The species ingests aquatic plants, algae, and seeds that fall into the water. Seasonal shifts influence the proportion of each item: during warm months, insect abundance increases, while in colder periods the reliance on plant material and slower‑moving prey rises.
Foraging behavior supports this varied diet. The animal is primarily nocturnal, using sensitive whiskers to detect movement in turbid water. Webbed hind feet enable swift swimming and pursuit of agile prey. When hunting on the surface, it employs a rapid snap of the jaws to seize insects and small vertebrates.
In captivity, a balanced regimen mirrors the natural diet: live or frozen insects, small crustaceans, fish fillets, and occasional plant supplements such as duckweed or algae wafers. Protein content should remain high, with a modest inclusion of fiber from plant material to maintain digestive health.