Paraleptomys

The Guinea - mountain water rats ( Paraleptomys ) are a rodent species from the group of Altweltmäuse ( Murinae ). The genus includes two species. Contrary to earlier views, they are not closely related to the Guinea - water rats ( Leptomys ), but are incorporated as relatives of swimming rats in the Hydromys group.

These rodents reach a head -body length 12-14 centimeters, the tail measures 13 to 15 cm and the weight is 34-58 grams. Their fur is whitish - light gray gray-brown on the back and belly. They are native to New Guinea, their habitat is mountainous forests in 1800-2700 meters above sea level. Little is known about their way of life.

There are two types:

• Paraleptomys rufilatus inhabited highlands in northern New Guinea. The species is characterized by a white throat and a reddish head. Due to its small distribution area, the species is considered " high risk " ( endangered ).
• Paraleptomys wilhelmina lives in the Massif Central New Guinea. She has a grayer fur than P. rufilatus. Your degree of risk is not known, the IUCN lists them under "too little data available " ( data deficient ).