Andean rat

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The Andean rat (Lenoxus apicalis), also known as the white-tailed akodont, is a unique rodent that lives on the eastern slopes of the Andes in southern Peru and northern Bolivia. It is the only species in its genus Lenoxus and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Description:
- Medium-sized with a tail that is as long as or longer than the body.
- Long snout and small, sparsely haired ears.
- Back is blackish-grey with lighter grey on the flanks; the belly is greyish-brown with a buff tint.
- Tail is greyish-brown all over with a distinctly white tip at the end.
- The tops of the feet are grey and the toes are white.

Habitat and range:
- Endemic to the eastern Andes, occurring in southern Peru and northern Bolivia.
- Lives in montane and cloud forests at elevations of 1,500–2,500 meters.

Behavior and ecology:
- Not well known. In Peru, they were found running through thick ferns and moss-covered roots; in Bolivia, in drier, less dense forests.

Genetics:
- Studies show it is not closely related to Oxymycterus and it diverged early from other Akodontini rodents.