What mouse species has a black stripe on its back? - briefly
«Rhabdomys pumilio», commonly known as the striped mouse, exhibits a distinct black dorsal stripe. The species occupies savanna and grassland habitats in southern Africa.
What mouse species has a black stripe on its back? - in detail
The species most commonly identified by a distinct dark stripe running longitudinally along the centre of the dorsal pelage is the striped field mouse, scientifically known as Apodemus agrarius. This rodent belongs to the family Muridae and is classified within the genus Apodemus.
Morphologically, the dorsal stripe is composed of densely pigmented guard hairs that contrast sharply with the surrounding brown‑grey fur. The stripe extends from the occipital region to the base of the tail, remaining visible even in juveniles. Body length ranges from 90 mm to 115 mm, with a tail length of 70 mm to 95 mm; the tail is typically bicolored, darker dorsally and lighter ventrally.
Geographically, the species occupies a broad range across temperate Eurasia, including eastern Europe, Siberia, northern China, and the Korean Peninsula. Preferred habitats comprise open grasslands, cultivated fields, river valleys, and the edges of wetlands, where dense ground cover provides protection from predators.
Ecologically, the mouse is primarily nocturnal and omnivorous. Diet consists of seeds, insects, and plant material, with seasonal shifts toward higher insect consumption during the breeding season. Breeding occurs from spring to autumn, producing up to five litters per year, each containing three to seven offspring. The dorsal stripe may serve as a visual cue for conspecific recognition and as camouflage against the linear shadows of grassy environments.
Key identification points:
- Species: Apodemus agrarius (striped field mouse)
- Distinctive feature: continuous black dorsal stripe from head to tail base
- Size: head‑body 90–115 mm; tail 70–95 mm
- Distribution: eastern Europe to East Asia, favoring open, moist habitats
- Behavior: nocturnal, omnivorous, multiple breeding cycles annually
The stripe distinguishes this mouse from sympatric congeners such as the wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus), which lacks a continuous dorsal band and exhibits a more uniform coloration.