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Diversity and Conservation of Rodents in Saudi Arabia

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05 May 2024

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06 May 2024

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Abstract
The rodents of Saudi Arabia consist of 20 species and 12 genera within four families (Gliridae, Dipodidae, Muridae, and Hystricidae). Details on the past and present distribution of the rodents were included along with available data on their habitat preference and biology. The eastern central part of Saudi Arabia covering Tuwiq mountains plateau, including the vicinity of Riyadh, hosts the highest number of rodent species. Analysis of the rodent fauna of Saudi Arabia revealed that they have four major zoogeographical affinities; Palaearctic-Oriental (one species), Afrotropical- Palaearctic (six species), Palaearctic (four species), endemic to Saudi Arabia and Yemen (three species), Afrotropical-Palaearctic-Oriental (three species) and three cosmopolitan species. According to the National Red List, the Euphrates Jerboa, S. euphratica, is listed as Endangered, Near Threatened for the Indian Crested Porcupine, H. indica, three species as Data Deficient, while the rest are considered as Least Concern.
Keywords: 
Rodentia
;  
Saudi Arabia
;  
distribution
;  
conservation
;  
zoogeography
Subject: 
Biology and Life Sciences  -   Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

1. Introduction

Rodents are considered as the largest order of mammals worldwide, comprising about 50% of living mammals. They are distributed all over the world in almost all types of habitats including forests, temperate, tropical, deserts, riparian habitats as well as human inhabited areas [1,2].
Species of this order play an important role in arid regions. Some keystone species are considered as ecosystem engineering, where they propagate seeds, increase plant productivity around their burrows, provide shelter for arthropods and reptiles in their deserted burrows, as well as food source for small and medium carnivores, snakes and raptors [3,4].
Studies on the systematics and distribution of the rodents of Saudi Arabia were published over the past century [5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13], with a total of 20 extant species. The most comprehensive study was published by Büttiker & Harrison [14]. Other studies addressed the ecology and biology for some species; the Southwest Asian Garden Dormouse, Eliomys melanurus [15], the Yemen White-footed Rat, Myomyscus yemeni [16] and the reproductive biology of the Baluchistan gerbil, Gerbillus nanus [17].
Studies on the locomotory activity rhythm for Eliomys melanurus, Acomys dimidiatus, Meriones rex, Meriones lybicus and Gerbillus dasyurus were investigated [18,19,20,21]. Rodents remains in owl pellets were studied by several authors, providing additional locality records [22,23,24,25].
The present study updates the taxonomy and distributional data for 20 rodent species based on previous records and the recent results of field work, addressed their zoogeographical affinities, and identified threats facing some rodent species in Saudi Arabia.

2. Materials and Methods

Previous records for the rodents of Saudi Arabia were extracted from published papers, reports, and the mammal’s collection of the late Prof. Iyad Nader deposited at the National Centre for Wildlife (NCW). Additionally, personal observations, rodents recovered from owl pellets and from trapping in different sites in Saudi Arabia by the NCW field biologists over the past three years (2022-2024) are included. Data on rodents’ distribution covers 176 localities (Figure 1, Appendix A). Records for each species reported previously are indicated with the reference number in parentheses. Scientific and common names were checked according to Wilson and Reeder [26].

3. Results

3.1. Diversity of the rodent Fauna of Saudi Arabia

The rodents of Saudi Arabia consist of 20 species in four families (Gliridae, Dipodidae, Muridae, and Hystricidae) and 12 genera. The family Muridae includes 16 species, while the families Gliridae and Hystricidae include one species for each, and family Dipodidae includes two species.
Family Gliridae
Dormice occurs mostly in Europe, with some species in Asia and Africa. Members of this family are characterized by a hairy and bushy tail and with presence four ckeekteeth in the maxilla. Members of this family are known to have an arboreal lifestyle. In Saudi Arabia, this family includes a single species.
Eliomys melanurus (Wagner, 1839)
Common name: Southwest Asian Garden Dormouse
Previous records: Dar el Harma [6], Jabal Shar, Medain Salih, Wadi Dalaghan [15,27], Raydah Protected Area [18].
Recent records: 35 Km SE Abha, Alagan, Al Souda, Neom, Tabuk.
Habitat and ecology: It occurs in very arid and densely vegetated habitats. As the distribution map shows, it was collected in sandstone deserts and rocky areas. It feeds on insects, snails and centipedes. They come out at night and feed on wild fig trees. The Southwest Asian Garden Dormouse became adapted to a non-arboreal lifestyle 1.2 million years ago [28]. This species has a remarkable distribution pattern, despite being originally an arboreal species. Populations of this species may represent relicts in the deserts of Saudi Arabia [29].
Biology: Females give birth to 2-9 young, and become fully mature by one year [30]. The Southwest Asian Garden Dormouse lives along with other desert rodents, such as G. dasyurus and Acomys russatus [31]. Alagaili et al. [18] studied the locomotor activity of this species under controlled environment in Saudi Arabia. Al Khalili [32] recovered Myoxopsylla laverania parasitizing this species.
Family Dipodidae
The elongated hind limbs and short forearms characterize members of this family. This is an adaptation for saltatorial movement. Two genera are recognized in Saudi Arabia, Scarturus and Jaculus. Both contain one species that are found in dry arid parts of the country.
Scarturus euphratica (Thomas, 1881)
Common name: Euphrates Jerboa
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Qaisumah [7], Summan Plateau [9], Turaif [12], Ara’r [24].
Recent records: Luga.
Habitat and ecology: This is a true desert species and restricted to the arid habitats of Saudi Arabia. It is mostly associated with wadis in dry parts of the country and avoids sand habitats. In Saudi Arabia, burrows may reach up to 45 cm. deep and about one meter long with one single entrance [7].
Biology: The Euphrates Jerboa becomes active after sunset and looks for food close to its burrow site. Females may give birth up to nine young. Kadhim and Wahid [33] examined the reproduction of S. euphratica males and stated that the period of February to May includes higher level of breeding activity of males with a second activity period during October. In Saudi Arabia, many remains were found in pellets of the Pharaoh Eagle Owl, Bubo ascalaphus and possibly the Omani owl, Strix butleri and the Barn Owl, Tyto alba [9].
Jaculus loftusi (Blanford, 1875)
Common name: Arabian Jerboa
Global distribution: Arabian Peninsula, Syria, Jordan, Iraq (W of Euphrates).
Distribution in Saudi Arabia
Previous report: Artawiya [6], Summan Plateau [9], Harrart Al Harrah [10,34], Saja/Umm Ar-Rimth [11,36], Turaif [12], Wadi As Sulai [13,22], Al Khubra, Mekka by pass, Makkah-Lith, Wadi Sirhan [14], Ara’r [24], Al Daba’ah, Bsitah [25], Hazm an-Nuquria, Ras al-Abkhara [35], Uruq Bani Ma’arid [37].
Recent records: Al Thumamah, Buridah, Luga, Qbah, NW Riyadh, Sha’ib Al Shoki, Shaybah, Tabuk.
Habitat and ecology: The ecology of the Arabian Jerboa is well studied in Saudi Arabia [7]. It is a nocturnal species and remains active for the first 3 to 4 hours after dark. Burrows are situated in levelled arid areas and may reach up to 120 cm deep with several food chambers, a nest and several blind alleys. The entrance is plugged by sand during the daytime. Jaculus loftusi is a successful desert colonial species. In Turaif, it was a very common species in high densities [12]. It is mostly associated with open gravel plains. It inhabits a wide variety of habitats including sabkhas, sand and alluvial deserts covered by chenopods [14].
Biology: It is a nocturnal species and remains active for the first 3 to 4 hours after dark. Females produce 2-7 new born after a gestation period that lasts for about 25 days [7,38]. The Arabian Jerboa is a one of the prey items for desert owls in Saudi Arabia [6,34]. Two flea species, Xenopsylla cheopis and Ctenocephalides felis were also found to parasitize this species in the vicinity of Riyadh [39].
Family Muridae
Recent revision of Order Rodentia made radical changes in the systematics of this order [1,2]. By now three main subfamilies are known to occur in Saudi Arabia (Gerbillinae, Murinae and Deomyinae). This family includes rats, jirds and gerbils that assumes different lifestyles. It includes species that are considered serious pests of economic and health importance.
Acomys dimidiatus (Cretzschmar, 1826)
Common name: Eastern Spiny Mouse
Global distribution: Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, Yemen, Oman, Saudi Arabia, S Iraq, Iran, and Pakistan.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Abha, Birka, Rumah, Shaib Hajlil, Wadi Liya [6], Wadi As Sulai [13,22], Adama, Adnan, Al Haniq, Al Na’amah, SW Al Ula, Al Wajh, Artawiyah, Ash Sharayi, 38 km S Athnen, Bani Musayqirah, Hamid, Hesua, Fayfa, Jabal Ammariyah, Jabal Al Alam, Jabal Farrash, Kushm Buwaybiyat, Kushm Dibi, Shaib al Tawqi, Tala’a, Thamniya, Wadi Karrar, Wadi Khumra, Wadi Qatan, Wadi Rasid, Wadi Sanakhah, Wadi Shaib Luha, Wadi Thalham, Wadi Turabah, Wadi Wajj [14], Riydaha Protected Area [19], Al Daba’ah [25], Riyadh [39], Wadi Sharayi [40], Wadi Hanifah [41], Farasan Al-Kebir [42], Aga, Alzobara, Barazan, Eljameayein, Elkhomashiya [43], Alogl, Alous, Wosanib [44], Riyadh Province [45].
Recent records: Dirab, Duba, Harrat Kishb, Ibex Reserve, Jeddah, Neom, NW Riyadh, Tabuk, Wadi Dalagan.
Habitat and ecology: The Eastern Spiny Mouse is a rock dwelling species including mesic and xeric biotopes. It is found across the entire mountain ranges extending along Hijaz reaching south wards to Abha mountains [14]. It can be found in rocky areas with trees and shrubs. It also invaded forest habitats in south-western Saudi Arabia. In Hisma around Tabuk, it is associated with dry sandstone mountains with minimal vegetation.
Biology: It is strictly nocturnal in contrast to the Golden Spiny Mouse, Acomys russatus. In arid regions, the Eastern Spiny Mouse feeds on land snails and seeds of various plants. The entrance of its burrow is usually piled with crushed land snails of several genera [29]. Also, the entrance may be plugged by thorny plants, perhaps to prevent intruders (e.g. snakes) from entering. Gestation lasts for 36-40 days, and the young (2 or 3, at most 5) are born mainly in the spring and summer months [2]. The circadian rhythm of locomotory activity of this species was studied under controlled conditions [19]. Al Khalili [32] recovered parasites from this species including Parapulex chephrenis, X. cheopis, Stenoponia tripectinata, Rhipcephalus sanguineus, and Haemaphysalis sulcata. Al-Ahmed and Al-Dawood [41] collected Xenopsyllus sp., and Rhipicephalus turanicus parasitizing this species in the vicinity of Riyadh. Two flea species, X. cheopis and C. felis were also found to parasitize this species [39]. Stekolnikov et al. [44] collected several species of chigger mites parasitizing on this species.
Acomys russatus (Wagner, 1840)
Common name: Golden Spiny Mouse
Global distribution: E Egypt, Sinai, Jordan, Palestine, and Saudi Arabia.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Wadi Liya [6], Tuwaiq Escarpment, Wadi Khumra [14], Wadi As Sulai [22], Riyadh Province [45].
Recent records: Jabal Al Aswad, Harrat Kishb, Harrat Khaybar, NW Riyadh. Ibex Reserve
Habitat and ecology: This species is common among rocky areas around the Arabian Sheild and the western mountains. Atallah [31] stated that the Golden Spiny Mouse lives along with A. dimidiatus; both species prefer rocky terrain. It feeds on several halophytic plants such as Anabasis articulata, Atriplex halimus and Hammada scorpia [46].
Biology: The Golden Spiny Mouse is nocturnal in areas where A. dimidiatus is absent, while it is active in the morning hours and late afternoon in habitats shared with A. dimidiatus [47].
Remarks: It is highly possible to find the melanistic form Acomys russatus lewisi in the black lava deserts of Harrat Al Harrah [29].
Subfamily Gerbillinae
This subfamily includes gerbils and jirds. This subfamily constitutes the largest group of rodents occurring Saudi Arabia, with four genera, Gerbillus, Meriones, Psammomys and Sekeetamys, with a total of 10 species.
Gerbillus dasyurus (Wagner, 1842)
Common name: Wagner’s Gerbil
Global distribution: Arabian Peninsula, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Sinai.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Artawiya, Balum wells, Thamami wells [6], Summan Plateau [9], Harrat Al Harrah [10], Wadi As Sulai [13], Al Haniq, Al Wajh, An Namas, An Na’amah, Jabal Banban, Jabal Thamamah, Nuayriyah, Risayah, Thamniyah, Tumeir, Wadi Rasid [14], Ara’r [24], Al Daba’ah [25], Ras al Abkhara [35].
Recent records: Luga, Neom, Qbah, Sharma, Tabuk, Tanomah.
Habitat and ecology: Wagner’s Gerbil has a wide range of habitats including basalt deserts, silt dunes, run-off wadis and cultivated areas. This gerbil is very common in the Saudi Arabian deserts. It was also collected from several localities along the western mountains, the Arabian shield area as well as open deserts. It was found to share burrows with P. obesus [48].
Biology: The burrows are simple but deep, with 1-2 unplugged emergency exists. Stored plant found includes Anabasis articulata, Atriplex halimus and Artemisia herpa-alba [49]. Reproduction occurs almost all year-round and pauses in December. Gestation lasts for 18-22 days with a litter size of 3-7 new borne [50]. In Saudi Arabia, many remains were found in pellets of the Pharaoh Eagle Owl, Bubo ascalaphus and possibly the Omani owl, Strix butleri and the Barn Owl, Tyto alba [9,22]. Al Khalili [31] recovered ectoparasites from this species including P. chephrenis, X. cheopis, Xenopsylla dipodilli, Xenopsylla brasiliensis, S. tripectinata, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and H. sulcata.
Gerbillus cheesmani Thomas, 1919
Common name: Cheesman’s Gerbil
Global distribution: SW Iran, C and S Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Oman, North Yemen, South Yemen, and Kuwait.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Al Saiyarat, Hafr Al Batin [6], Harrat Al Harrah [10], Saja Umm Ar-Rimth [11,36], Turaif [12], Wadi As Sulai [13,22], Ash Sharayi, Al Wajh, Al Uquar, Jeddah, Makkah by pass, Salim [14], Abu Ali Island, Abu Hadriya, Dauhat ad Dafi, Hazm al Faidah, Jubail, Ras az Zaur [35], Mahazat as-Sayd [51].
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Figure 2. A. Eliomys melanurus. B. Scarturus euphratica (Photo by A. Shehab). C. Jaculus loftusi. D. Acomys dimidiatus. E. Acomys russatus (Photo by B. Rubinic). F. Gerbillus dasyurus (Photo by A. Shehab).
Figure 2. A. Eliomys melanurus. B. Scarturus euphratica (Photo by A. Shehab). C. Jaculus loftusi. D. Acomys dimidiatus. E. Acomys russatus (Photo by B. Rubinic). F. Gerbillus dasyurus (Photo by A. Shehab).
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Recent records: Hafir Kishb, Ibex Reserve, Immam Turki Ben Abdullah Reserve, Luga, Qubat Al Zbair, Shaybah, Urouq Bani Moa’red.
Habitat and ecology: This is a sand dwelling species and most abundant among red sandy areas around Ephedra alata and Calligonum shrubs. It does not form extensive burrow system, and the burrow has one hole located under shrubs [6].
Biology: The reproduction pattern of this species was studied in Saudi Arabia by Henry and Dubost [36]. They stated that males and females reproduced synchronously and the reproduction season coincided with rainfall. In Saudi Arabia, many remains were found in pellets of the Pharaoh Eagle Owl, B. ascalaphus and possibly the Omani owl, S. butleri and the Barn Owl, T. alba [9,22].
Gerbillus henleyi (De Winton, 1903)
Common name: Pygmy Gerbil
Global distribution: Algeria through N Africa to Palestine and Jordan, Western Saudi Arabia, N Yemen, and Oman.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Summan Plateau [9], Al Arf [14].
Habitat and ecology: The Pygmy Gerbil was collected from extreme desert habitats. It prefers gravelly as well as sandy deserts with very scarce vegetation of perennial bushes and shrubs [14]. Its burrow is characterized by its small diameter (1-2 cm).
Biology: The Pygmy Gerbil is the smallest rodent known to inhabit the Saudi Arabia deserts. A female was found to have six embryos [52]. In the Negev, two distinct breeding periods were observed, one in the spring and the second in late summer. In comparison with other species of the genus Gerbillus, G. henleyi is more a seed eater, more mobile with a less stable home range than D. dasyurus. This suggests that G. henleyi is more adapted to xeric habitats than other gerbils [53]. It was collected from areas with scarce vegetation cover. In Saudi Arabia, many remains were found in pellets of the Pharaoh Eagle Owl, B. ascalaphus and possibly the Omani owl, S. butleri and the Barn Owl, T. alba [9].
Gerbillus nanus Blanford, 1875
Common name: Dwarf Gerbil
Global distribution: An extensive range from the Baluchistan region of NW India, Pakistan, S Afghanistan, and Iran through the Arabian Peninsula, Iraq, Jordan, Palestine, and North Africa to Morocco.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Artawiya, Balum wells, Median Salih, Raudha Tinhat, Rumaihiya, Thamami wells [6], Harrat Al Harrah [10], Saja Umm Ar-Rimth [11,36], Turaif [12], Wadi As Sulai [13], Ashayrah, Ath-thamamah, Al Uquar, Ar Rayn, Bahara, Dirab, Hofuf, Jabal Alam, Jabal Banban, Jabal Maniq, Jizan, Kushm Dibi, Makkah by pass, Quwaywiyah, Sanam, Todiah, Umm Ad Dabah, Wadi Awsat, Wadi Hureimala, Wadi Karj, Wadi Khumra, Wadi Nissah, Wadi Shija, Wadi Shuqub, 10 km W Al Qasab [14], Farasan Island [23], Ara’r [24], Al Aba Oasis, Dauhat al Musallamiya, Jubail, Ras al Abkhara [35], Riyadh Province [43].
Recent records: Al Qidiyah, Hail, Harrat Kishb, Harrat Khaybar, Ibex Reserve, Immam Turki Ben Abdullah Reserve, Qbah, Tabuk.
Habitat and ecology: The Dwarf Gerbil was collected from low sandy wadis with considerable salty nature in eastern Saudi Arabia. It was found coexisting with either one of the large-sized jirds, M. crassus or M. libycus [54]. It was one of the most common species in Saja/Umm Ar-Rimth Protected Area, and was trapped along with M. crassus, M. libycus, G. cheesmani, and J. loftusi [11]. Activity is at its maximum two hours after dusk [7].
Biology: This is a herbivorous species feeding also on seeds and buds of species of grasses. temperature. First pregnancies were observed in late spring [17]. Litter size ranges from 2-5.
Gerbillus poecilops Yerbury and Thomas, 1895.
Common name: Large Aden Gerbil
Global distribution: Yemen and southwestern Saudi Arabia.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Mecca bypass, Wadi Uranah [31], Al Hadda [55].
Habitat and ecology: Very little is known about the ecology of this species in Saudi Arabia. It was trapped from cultivated fields and was found along coastal mountains in the Red Sea as well as sandy deserts within the vicinity of inhabited areas. It was found in farms cultivated with cotton and sorghum as well as buildings within farms in Yemen [27].
Biology: The Large Aden Gerbil feeds on various vegetable matter [2]. Very little is known on the breeding biology of this species, it may breed in spring and summer.
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Figure 2. A. Gerbillus cheesmani. B. Gerbillus henleyi (Photo by M. Abu Baker). C. Gerbillus nanus. D. Gerbillus poecilops (Photo by M. Jordan). E. Meriones crassus. F. Meriones libycus. G. Meriones rex (Photo by R. Wirth). H. Psammomys obesus (Photo by S. Al Jbour).
Figure 2. A. Gerbillus cheesmani. B. Gerbillus henleyi (Photo by M. Abu Baker). C. Gerbillus nanus. D. Gerbillus poecilops (Photo by M. Jordan). E. Meriones crassus. F. Meriones libycus. G. Meriones rex (Photo by R. Wirth). H. Psammomys obesus (Photo by S. Al Jbour).
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Meriones crassus Sundevall, 1842
Common name: Sundevall’s Jird
Global distribution: Across North Africa from Morocco through Niger, Sudan, and Egypt to Palestine, Jordan, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Ajibba, Balum wells, Gariya, Hafar Al Batin, Qunfidah, Rumaihiya [6], Summan Plateau [9], Harrat Al Harrah [10], Saja Umm Ar-Rimth [11,36], Turaif [12], Wadi As Sulai [13,22], Al Qasab, Dammam-Dhahran Rd., Hofuf, Jeddah, Nabhaniyah, Tumeir, Wadi Khumra, Wadi Shija [14], Ara’r [24], Al Daba’ah, Bsitah [25], Dauhat ad Dafi, Dauhat al Musallamiya, Hazim an Naquriya, Jubail, Ras al Abkhara [35].
Recent records: al Beda’a, Immam Turki Ben Abdullah Reserve, Luga, Maqna, Neom, Sharma, Tabuk.
Habitat and ecology: This is one of the most common jirds inhabiting the dry and arid habitats of Saudi Arabia. Büttiker & Harrison [14] indicated that sabkhas and alluvial wadi beds with relatively rich vegetation as favourite habitats for this species This is a colonial species with extensive burrow system. Abu Dieyeh [56] described the burrow system of the Sundevall’s Jird in Jordan. The burrow has elaborate tunnels that may reach several meters with several food and nesting chambers. Burrows are located among silty flat areas with ample vegetation around such as Rhanterium epapposum [6].
Biology: It feeds on a variety of food items including desert plants, seeds (Medicago sp.), animal dung and insects such as locusts [57]. This is a diurnal species, but may also forage at night. In Saudi Arabia, many remains were found in pellets of the Pharaoh Eagle Owl, B. ascalaphus and possibly the Omani owl, S. butleri and the Barn Owl, T. alba [9,22]. Breeding occurs during the cooler months, but may breed all year round, producing up to three litters a year. Litter size is around 3 to 7 young [58].
Meriones libycus Lichtenstein, 1823
Common name: Libyan Jird
Global distribution: North Africa to Egypt, through Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iraq, Syria, Iran, Afghanistan, and into S Turkestan to W China.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Adwa, Anaiza, Artawiya, Hafr Al Batin, Rumaihiya [6], Summan Plateau [9], Harrat Al Harrah [10], Saja Umm Ar-Rimth [11], Turaif [12], Wadi As Sulai [13,22], Al Khardj, Hofuf, Thamamah, Wadi Khumra [14], Ara’r [24], Abu Hadriya, Dauhat al Musallamiya, Jubail, Ras al Abkhara [35], Riyadh Province [45].
Recent records: Hail, Immam Turki Ben Abdullah Reserve, Luga, Taif.
Habitat and ecology: The Libyan Jird is a common colonial species in north-central and north eastern Saudi Arabia. Burrows are constructed in sand-silty hillsides near bushes around wadi beds. It forms extensive burrow systems that consist of many openings, a nest and food chambers [26]. Atallah [59] reported that it feeds on Citrullus coloycnthis, while Vesey-Fitzgerald [6] stated that it excavates and feeds on Iris bulbs. This is a nocturnal species; however, it may appear during daytime.
Biology: In Saudi Arabia, remains of this species were found in pellets of the Pharaoh Eagle Owl, B. ascalaphus and possibly the Omani owl, S. butleri and the Barn Owl, T. alba [9,22,24]. Females give birth to 2-4 young [60]. Newborns were observed in March.
Remarks: listed as Meriones erthrourus Gray by Vesey-Fitzgerald [6].
Meriones rex Yerbury and Thomas, 1895
Common name: King Jird
Global distribution: Yemen and southwestern Saudi Arabia.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Hijla [6], Al Dalhan, Wadi Turabah [14], Raydah Protected Area [20], Al Baha, Taif, Wadi Dalaghan [24], Alogl, Wosanib [62], Ash Sharayi, Dailami, Shaib Hanjur [61], Abha, Kamis Mushayat, Sarhan, Wadi Bin Hashbal [63], Najran [64], Wadi Bin Hashbal, Wadi Dalaghan [65], Taif [66].
Recent records: Abha, Al Azizah, Wadi Eia.
Habitat and ecology: This is an endemic species confined to Yemen and south-western Saudi Arabia. It was found in large burrows under trees in areas on the border between desert and agricultural land [24]. It shares burrows with A. dimidiatus and Gerbillus spp. It seems to be very common in cultivated and uncultivated areas and forms large colonies [6]. Specimens were taken from altitudes ranging from 1350-2200 m a.s.l. [14].
Biology: The King Jird is active during evening and early morning hours, where it was observed feeding on shoots. It feeds on Salvadora persica. The locomotory activity patterns of the King Jird was studied under controlled condition [20]. Several studies investigated the ectoparasites associated with this species; Al Khalili [32] recovered Xenopsylla brasiliensis, S. tripectinata, R. sangeinius and Haemaphysalis sp., while Al Mohammed [65] found Xenopsylla astia, Ctenocephalides arabicus, and Ornithonyssus bacoti and Androlaelaps tateronis, P. chephrensis, Synosternus cleopatrae, Xenopsylla conformis mycerini, Xenopsylla nubica, Hyalomma impeltatum, and Rhipicephalus camicasi were collected by Harrison et al. [66].
Psammomys obesus Cretzschmar, 1828
Common name: Fat Sand Rat
Global distribution: In North Africa from Algeria through Tunisia and coastal region of Egypt into Syria, Jordan, Palestine, and parts of Arabia, also on the coast of Sudan.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Hail, Median Saleh [6], Wadi As Sulai [22], Abqaiq, Nabek [24], Riyadh Province [45], Dailami [55], Safaha Desert, near Hail [61], Tabuk [67].
Habitat and ecology: The Sand Fat Jird is a colonial species forming large colonies constructed close to Anabasis sp. shrubs. The ecology of this species was studied by Amr and Saliba [48], where they reported on its diurnal activity, feeding habits, burrow system and association with other animals. In Saudi Arabia, it was found in gravelly deserts and avoids rocky areas.
Biology: This is a strictly diurnal species that can be observed near the burrow opening. Gestation period may last for 23-25 days, and females give birth to 2-8 young [60].
Remarks: the Saudi subspecies Psammomys obesus dianae was described from Dailami [55].
Sekeetamys calurus (Thomas, 1892)
Common name: Bushy-tailed Jird
Global distribution: From E Egypt through Sinai, S Palestine and Jordan into Central Saudi Arabia.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Jabal Banban, Wadi Khumra [14], Wadi As Sulai [22], Tuwaiq Mountains 36km SW Riyadh [68].
Recent records: Hail, Neom, Majama’ Al Hadab.
Habitat and ecology: This species prefers to live around mountain slopes in arid regions. It is a good climber and perhaps lives under boulders. Specimens were collected from a rocky ledge on the eastern side of the Tuwaiq mountains and were found associated with A. dimidiatus and G. nanus [68].
Biology: The Bushy-tailed Jird is a nocturnal species with very little knowledge on its biology. Specimens from Saudi Arabia in February were pregnant with three embryos [68]. In Palestine, it was found to be in breeding condition in February and March [57]. In captivity, a female gave birth to four offspring [68]. Vegetation observed near its burrows includes the Wild Fig, Ficus pseudo-sycomorus. Osborn and Helmy [60] included many desert plants as part of its diet (Zilla spinosa, Citrullus colocynthis etc.). It subsists on dry vegetation, seeds, and arthropods [69]. Remains of this jird were found in Vulpes cana faecal remains [70]. In Saudi Arabia, remains were found in pellets of the Pharaoh Eagle Owl [22].
Subfamily Murinae
Species of this subfamily are characterized by having relatively long tails that is covered by scales with annuli. Tail does not terminate with a hair tuft. Four species have been confirmed to occur in Saudi Arabia, including three genera; Rattus, Mus and Myomyscus while Nesokia indica was not listed until further investigation.
Rattus rattus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Common name: Black Rat
Global distribution: All over the world.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Wadi As Sulai [13,22], Dammam Port, Hofuf, Jeddah, Riyadh [14], Al Aba Oasis [35], Wadi Hanifah [41], Aga, Alzobara, Barazan, Eljameayein, Elkhomashiya [43], Alous [62].
Recent records: Bani Malik, Farasan Island, Jabal Al Lith Island.
Habitat and ecology: This is a common species occurring in cities, villages and farming areas. Its populations are increasing rapidly in association with urban and agricultural expansion. The Black Rat successfully invaded remote areas in the country. This was facilitated by vehicles transporting animal feed and other agricultural crops.
Biology: Breeding takes place between March and November; three to five litters can be produced in a year, each litter containing 1 to 16 young. In Saudi Arabia, remains were found in pellets of the Pharaoh Eagle Owl, B. ascalaphus [22]. Al-Ahmed and Al-Dawood [41] collected Xenopsylla sp., and Rhipicephalus turanicus while El Bahrawy and Al Dakhil [39] recovered two fleas, X. cheopis and C. felis and one louse, Polyplax spinulosa parasitizing this species in the vicinity of Riyadh. At Al lith Island, it was found to feed on eggs of the vulnerable Sooty Falcons, Falco concolor, causing considerable decline in its population growth.
Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout, 1769)
Common name: Brown Rat
Global distribution: All over the world.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Dammam, Hofuf, Jeddah [14], Riyadh [39], Aga, Alzobara, Barazan, Eljameayein, Elkhomashiya [43].
Recent records: Taif, Al Khobar, Jazan port area.
Habitat and ecology: This rat inhabits urban areas, especially sea ports as well as farm lands or where there is fresh water (canals, sewers, etc.) possibly with muddy banks, where it is possible to build dens. It is not as common as the Black Rat. From Hail region, it seems common in farms and around human habitation [43].
Biology: El Bahrawy and Al Dakhil [39] recovered two fleas, X. cheopis and C. felis and one lice, P. spinulosa parasitizing this species in the vicinity of Riyadh.
Mus musculus Linnaeus, 1758
Common name: House Mouse
Global distribution: Spread over the world’s continents and islands (except Antarctica) through its close association with humans.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Harrat Al Harrah [10], Wadi As Sulai [13,22], Al Khardj, Al Khubra, Bani Sar, Buridah, Dammam, Hofuf, Jeddah, Riyadh, Wadi Turabah, [14], Bsitah [25], Abu Ali Island, Al Aba Oasis, Hazm an Nuquriya, Karan Island, Jana Island, Jubail, Ras al Abkhara [35], Alogl [62].
Recent records: Jazan.
Habitat and ecology: The House Mouse is a very successful species that is found in all types of habitats, including deserts. The House Mouse is commonly found in modern and old houses, shops, hotels, farms.
Biology: They breed about 12 times per year giving birth to about 5-8 new born each time. Within six weeks, the young’s are able to reproduce. In Saudi Arabia, remains were found in pellets of the Pharaoh Eagle Owl, B. ascalaphus [22]. El Bahrawy and Al Dakhil [39] recovered two fleas, X. cheopis and C. felis and one lice, P. spinulosa parasitizing this species in the vicinity of Riyadh.
Myomyscus yemeni (Sanborn & Hoogstraal, 1953)
Common name: Yemen White-footed Rat
Global distribution: N Yemen and SW Saudi Arabia.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Al Haniq, Thamniyah [14], Wadi Dalaghan [16], Alogl, Wosanib [62], Asir National Park [71].
Recent records: Al Soudah, Raydah.
Habitat and ecology: This species is endemic to Yemen and south-western Saudi Arabia. Al-Khalili et al. [16] gave a comprehensive account on the ecology of the Yemen White-footed Rat. It was found at altitudes reaching 2100 m asl in areas covered by seasonal grasses such as Bromus spp., Chrysopogon sp., Pennisefum sp.) and with small trees of Vachellia tebaica and Lycium shawii shrubs [16]. Density estimates for this species ranged from 0.6- 4.49 individuals per hectare. Home range ranged from 1375-1700 m2.
Preprints 105649 g004
Figure 4. A. Sekeetamys calurus (Photo by M. Abu Baker). B. Rattus rattus. C. Rattus norvegicus. D. Mus musculus. E. Myomyscus yemeni (Photo by C. Bocos). F. Hystrix indica.
Figure 4. A. Sekeetamys calurus (Photo by M. Abu Baker). B. Rattus rattus. C. Rattus norvegicus. D. Mus musculus. E. Myomyscus yemeni (Photo by C. Bocos). F. Hystrix indica.
Preprints 105649 g004
Biology: Khalili et al. [16] gave a comprehensive account on the biology of this species in Wadi Dalaghan in the Al Sarawat Mountains. Pregnancy was found to occur in December to March and from May and October; Lactating females were observed in April and June. Number of embryos ranged 4-6. This species was found to feed on a variety of items including leaves, shoots, buds and seed, as well as insects, spiders, spiny mouse of the genus Acomys, lizards and Savigny's green tree frog Hyla savignyi. The ectoparasites recorded from this species include X. conformis and R. sanguineus [16]. Stekolnikov et al. [44] described a new species of chigger mites, Schoutedenichia asirensis, from the Yemen White-footed Rat, in addition to other species.
Remarks: This species was previously listed as a subspecies of the African species Praomys fumatus i.e. as Praomys fumatus yemeni.
Family Hystricidae
This family includes the Old World porcupines. The head and neck are covered with a crest of long bristles. The dorsal side is covered with spines of various sizes. Porcupines are nocturnal animals that feed entirely on roots, bulbs and other cultivated crops.
Hystrix indica Kerr, 1792
Common Name: Indian Crested Porcupine
Global distribution: Transcaucasus; Turkey; Arabia to S Kazakhstan and India; Sri Lanka; Tibet.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia:
Previous records: Harrat Al Harrah (Spines) [10], Turaif [12], between Abha-Al Darb, Al Qarrah, Khulays, Qalat Al Muazzam, Taif, Wadi Amag, Wadi Habagah, Wadi Hiswa, Wadi Hizma, Wadi Turabah [14], Jabal Shada [24], Median Salih [72], Summan [73], Abha, Al Masgi, Qunfuda, Riyadh, Tanuma [74].
Recent records: Al Baha, Al Khunfa, Al Juf, An Namas, Al Sarhan, Raydah, Rijal Alma’a, Wadi Arsha, Wadi Eia.
Habitat and ecology: The Indian Crested Porcupine favours rocky habitats with boulders and large and deep cervices. It lives in a wide variety of habitats, ranging from arid to humid areas in south-western Saudi Arabia. It occurs in Asir and Hijaz mountains in elevations reaching 1400-1450 m a.s.l. [14]. It shelters in wadis of rocky nature and may live in small caves or in constructed burrows. Hystrix indica is a generalist, adaptable animal with a wide range of distribution. It also frequents farmlands in the vicinity of human habitations. It is found in relatively high numbers in groups of four individuals in An Namas. They are active after dusk [75].
Biology: The Indian Crested Porcupine is a colonial animal. A female gives birth to 2-4 young. Kingdon [29] observed the courtship behaviour of H. indica, the female initiate courtship by moving closer towards the male in a proactive posture with the quills laid flat. They forage at night and can travel long distances away from their retreat.

3.2. Zoogeographical affinities of the rodents of Saudi Arabia

The zoogeography of the mammals of the Arabian Peninsula was presented by Delany [76]. His discussion was based on distributional data before 1989 (Table 2). Recent studies expanded known range for several species that by now allow us to discuss in detail the zoogeographic affinities of the rodents in Saudi Arabia.
Three species, G. nanus, M. crassus and M. libycus, representing 15% of the rodents of Saudi Arabia have a wide range of distribution throughout the Afrotropical-Palaearctic–Oriental range. Three species (15%) are endemic to Saudi Arabia and Yemen i.e. G. poecilops, M. rex and M. yemeni, while six species (30%), have Afrotropical - Palaearctic affinities (Table 1). Four species (20%) are considered of Palaearctic affinities i.e. J. loftusi, S. euphratica, G. cheesmani and G. dasyurus. The Indian Crested porcupine is the only representative of Palaearctic-Oriental affinity. Three species are known as cosmopolitan species, i.e. R. rattus, R. norvegicus, and M. musculus.

3.3. Species richness of rodents in Saudi Arabia

Figure 5 shows the species richness of the rodents across Saudi Arabia. The eastern central part of Saudi Arabia covering Tuwiq mountains plateau, including the vicinity of Riyadh, hosts the highest number of rodent species. This could be interpreted due to the several studies and collections made from this area. Also, it represents suitable habitats for several species of the genera Acomys, Gerbillus, Meriones, and S. calurus where it was found only from this area, as well as J. loftusi. It is followed by the southwestern region that includes three endemic species, however, with no occurrence of desert adapted species including sand and gravel dwellers (i.e. G. cheesmani, G. henleyi, G. nanus, M. crassus, and M. libycus).
The other parts of Saudi Arabia, hosts from 3-6 species, according to habitat types. One species, A. dimidiatus, stands to have a wide range of distribution that is associated with rocky and mountainous areas across the country. It was found along the Red Sea mountains, sandstone deserts and the Tuwiq mountains plateau. Commensal and/or cosmopolitan species are associated with human settlements and farming areas.

3.4. Conservation of rodents in Saudi Arabia

Most rodent species of Saudi Arabia were listed as Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List in both the global and Mediterranean assessments [77], however, national assessment for the rodents of Saudi Arabia listed some species as Endangered for the Euphrates Jerboa, S. euphratica, and Near Threatened for the Indian Crested Porcupine, H. indica, and three species listed as Data Deficient, while the rest are considered as Least Concern (Table 3).
The Indian Crested Porcupine is considered as a delicacy and is used in traditional medicine in many parts of Saudi Arabia [78] and the Middle East. It is as being poached on a wide scale causing a drastic decline in its population. In addition, farmers consider it as pest that causes damage to crops. This species is in trade whereas animals are offered for sale in Taif local markets. Several violations were issued for poaching this species in Abha region. The Indian Crested porcupine is the only rodent species listed under the executive regulations for hunting wildlife organisms (No. 312179/1/1442). The fine for hunting H. indica is 70,000 SR (about 18,600 US$).
Populations of the Euphrates Jerboa, S. euphratica, are declining in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere within its distribution range. It is one of the main prey items for desert owls. Locals relish the meat of jerboas, but this is practiced at a low scale. This species should be included within the hunting list of prohibited species. In some parts of Saudi Arabia, J. loftusi is hunted and consumed as a food item. It is also sold in local markets and used as bait in falconry. Local markets should be monitored to reduce trade in this species. Falconers should be advised to abandon hunting using alive jerboas.
Habitat modifications and tourism in mountainous areas can pose a threat to S. calurus, which is known from few localities.
There are no major threats to the three cosmopolitan species; M. musculus, R. rattus and R. norvegicus. They are considered as a serious pest to agriculture and invade houses, farms, storage areas causing severe financial losses and associated with diseases transmission.
Two of the endemic species, i.e. M. yemeni and M. rex are not threatened as seem to be abundant. On the contrary, little is known about G. poecilops, since it is known from limited localities.

4. Discussion

The present study documents the rodent fauna of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with a total of 20 extant species. In comparison with the surrounding countries in the Arabian Peninsula, it is relatively high, with presence of three endemic species. Twenty-eight extant species of rodents have recorded from Iraq [79], 28 from Jordan [80], five from Bahrain [81], nine from Kuwait [82], four from Qatar [83], 10 from United Arab Emirates [84], 13 from Oman [27,85] and 20 from Yemen [86]. Higher number of rodents in Iraq and Jordan is due to the presence of voles, squirrels and temperate forests species of the genus Apodemus.
The status and biology of some endemic species in Saudi Arabia requires further investigation such as the Large Aden Gerbil, G. poecilops. Genetic variations among species with a wide range of distribution such as A. dimidiatus, Eliomys melanurus and Gerbillus dasyurus deserve closer investigation.
More efforts to protect H. indica and S. euphratica are among the highest priorities by authorities, and more enforcement is required to preserve this Near Threatened and vulnerable species respectively. On other hand, role of cosmopolitan species, which can sometimes become invasive, in diseases transmission should be addressed and control measures of environment-friendly methods should be adopted.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, Z.S.A, F.M.A. and K.A-M; methodology and data collection, A-R.A., F.S, A.B., F.N. and S.A.J.; result analysis, Z.S.A, F.N., A-R.A. F.M.A. and K.A-M.; writing, Z.S.A., A.A.B., F.M.A., K.A-M, and F.S. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This study was supported by the National Center for Wildlife (NCW), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Data Availability Statement

Data are presented in the study.

Acknowledgments

This study was supported by the National Center for Wildlife (NCW), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We thank Mohammad Abu Baker, Carlos Bocos, Mark Jordan, Borut Rubinic, Adwan Shehab and Roland Wirth for providing images for some rodent species, Mohammad Al Nashiri and Abdul Majeed Alaqil from GIS unit (NCW) for maps preparation. We acknowledge the records from Immam Turki Ben Abdullah Reserve provided by Prof. Dr. Awad Al Juhani. Authors wish to express their gratitude to Dr. Mohammed Qurban, CEO of NCW for his continuous support and guidance.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Appendix A

Locality N E Locality N E
Abha 18° 14' 42° 31' Kamis Mushayat 18° 18' 42° 44'
Abqaiq 25° 57' 49° 41' Karan Island 27° 43' 49° 50'
Abu Ali Island 27° 20' 49° 33' Khulays 22° 09' 43° 55'
Abu Hadriya 27° 05' 49° 00' Kushm Buwaybiyat 25° 12' 46° 52'
Adama 19° 19' 42° 04' Kushm Dibi 24° 18' 46° 09'
Adnan 20° 26' 41° 31' Luga 29° 46' 42° 38'
Adwa 27° 20' 42° 15' Mahazat as-Sayd 22° 14' 41° 50'
Aga 27° 26' 41° 35' Makkah-Lith 21° 22' 39° 38'
Ajibba 27° 20' 44° 20' Maqna 28° 24' 34° 45'
Al Aba Oasis 26° 42' 49° 46' Medain Salih 26° 50' 38° 00'
Al Arf 22° 01' 40° 55' Mekka by pass 21° 15' 39° 42'
Al Azizah 18° 13' 42° 25' Nabek 24° 27' 50° 49'
Al Baha 20° 01' 41° 28' Nabhaniyah 25° 51' 43° 04'
al Beda’a 28° 29' 35° 02' Najran 17° 30' 44° 20'
Al Daba’ah 28° 44' 37° 58' Neom 28° 05' 35° 29'
Al Dalhan 18° 01' 43° 24' Nuayriyah 27° 32' 48° 24'
Al Hadda 21° 26' 39° 35' Qaisumah 28° 20' 46° 06'
Al Haniq 19° 45' 41° 57' Qalat Al Muazzam 27° 44' 37° 30'
Al Jawf 29° 52' 39° 26' Qasab 24° 14' 38° 53'
Al Khardj 23° 55' 47° 30' Qbah 27° 24' 44° 20'
Al Khubra 25° 05' 43° 39' Qubat Al Zbair 24° 52' 39° 56'
Al Khunfa 28° 38' 39° 19' Qunfidah 19° 09' 41° 07'
Al Masgi 17° 58' 42° 52' Quwaywiyah 23° 27' 44° 39'
Al Na’amah 20° 14' 41° 16' Ras al-Abkhara 27° 24' 49° 14'
Al Qarrah 18° 07' 42° 42' Ras az Zaur 27° 29' 49° 12'
Al Qasab 25° 24' 45° 47' Raudha Tinhat 26° 15' 46° 00'
Al Saiyarat 27° 10' 44° 50' Raydah Protected Area 18° 11' 42° 24'
Al Sarhan 18° 16' 42° 22' Rijal Alma’a 18° 09' 42° 09'
Al Souda 18° 15' 42° 24' Risayah 18° 57' 42° 11'
Al Thumamah 25° 22' 46° 36' Riyadh 24° 30' 38° 49'
Al Uquar 25° 39' 50° 13' Rumah 25° 37' 47° 07'
Al Wajh 26° 20' 37° 30' Rumaihiya 25° 30' 47° 00'
Alagan 28° 23' 36° 33' Safaha Desert 27° 19' 42° 23'
Alogl 18° 34' 42° 32' Saja/Umm Ar-Rimth 22° 30' 42° 28'
Alous 18° 26' 42° 30' Salim 23° 06' 42° 18'
Alzobara 27° 50' 41° 70' Sanam 23° 42' 44° 45'
An Namas 19° 11' 42° 19' Sarhan 18° 16' 42° 22'
Anaiza 26° 05' 44° 03' Sha’ib Al Shoki 25° 42' 45° 51'
Ar Rayn 23° 32' 45° 30' Shaib al Tawqi 25° 30' 46° 33'
Artawiya 26° 30' 45° 30' Shaib Hajlil 27° 30' 44° 30'
Ash Sharayi 21° 40' 40° 40' Shaib Hanjur 18° 15' 42° 45'
Asir National Park 18° 12' 42° 29' Sharma 28° 01' 35° 13'
Athnen 18° 46' 42° 16' Shaybah 22° 32' 53° 58'
Bahara 21° 23' 39° 27' Summan Plateau 27° 00' 47° 00'
Balum wells 27° 15' 44° 00' SW Al Ula 26° 38' 37° 54'
Bani Musayqirah 20° 21' 44° 30' Tabuk 28° 23' 36° 36'
Bani Sar 20° 08' 41° 45' Taif 21° 15' 40° 21'
Barazan 27° 52' 41° 70' Tala’a 18° 04' 43° 57'
between Abha-Al Darb 18° 01' 42° 25' Tanomah 18° 55' 42° 09'
Birka 27° 30' 44° 30' Thamami wells 27° 40' 45° 00'
Bsitah 30° 44’ 38° 31’ Thamniya 18° 01' 42° 45'
Buridah 26° 20' 43° 59' Todiah 24° 12' 48° 03'
Dailami 20° 20' 42° 40' Tumeir 25° 43' 45° 51'
Dammam-Dhahran Rd. 26° 16' 49° 59' Turaif 31° 39' 38° 39'
Dar el Harma 26° 50' 38° 20' Tuwaiq Escarpment 24° 23' 46° 30'
Dauhat ad Dafi 27° 03' 49° 24' Umm Ad Dabah 23° 47' 45° 04'
Dauhat al Musallamiya 27° 26' 49° 12' Uruq Bani Ma’arid 19° 20' 45° 54'
Dirab 24° 29' 46° 36' Wadi Amag 18° 40' 42° 17'
Duba 27° 21' 35° 48' Wadi Arsha 19° 45' 41° 36'
Eljameayein 27° 29' 41° 41' Wadi As Sulai 24° 36' 46° 55'
Elkhomashiya 27° 28' 41° 42' Wadi Awsat 24° 18' 46° 29'
Farasan Al-Kebir 16° 42' 41° 58' Wadi Bin Hashbal 18° 58' 43° 06'
Farasan Island 16° 44' 41° 50' Wadi Dalaghan 18° 02' 42° 50'
Fayfa 17° 15' 43° 06' Wadi Eia 18° 52' 42° 28'
Gariya 27° 35' 47° 40' Wadi Habagah 29° 47' 42° 40'
Hafir Kishb 22° 49' 41° 08' Wadi Hanifah 24° 35' 46° 42'
Hafr Al Batin 28° 12' 46° 07' Wadi Hiswa 18° 15' 42° 28'
Hail 27° 31' 41° 45' Wadi Hizma 18° 05' 43° 56'
Hamid 18° 48' 42°56' Wadi Hureimala 25° 06' 46° 05'
Harrart Al Harrah 30° 56' 39° 11' Wadi Karj 24° 21' 47° 11'
Hazm al Faidah 27° 17' 49°1 0' Wadi Karrar 21° 18' 40° 07'
Hazm an-Nuquria 27° 18' 49° 17' Wadi Khumra 24° 55' 46° 11'
Hesua 18° 14' 42° 22' Wadi Liya 21° 15' 40° 20'
Hijla 18° 15' 42° 38' Wadi Nissah 24° 12' 46° 04'
Hofuf 21° 30' 39° 12' Wadi Qatan 18° 07' 44° 07'
Ibex Reserve 23° 21' 46° 26' Wadi Rasid 24° 17' 46° 16'
Jabal Al Alam 25° 36' 41° 04' Wadi Sanakhah 18° 01' 44° 07'
Jabal Al Aswad 17° 39' 42° 39' Wadi Shaib Luha 24° 25' 46° 48'
Jabal Ammariyah 24° 48' 46° 14' Wadi Sharayi 21° 30' 39° 55'
Jabal Banban 25° 23' 46° 36' Wadi Shija 24° 51' 46° 10'
Jabal Farrash 19° 37' 43° 26' Wadi Shuqub 20° 40' 41° 15'
Jabal Maniq 24° 19' 46° 07' Wadi Sirhan 18° 16' 42° 22'
Jabal Shada 19° 50' 41° 18' Wadi Thalham 18° 24' 44° 08'
Jabal Shar 27° 23' 35° 27' Wadi Turabah 20° 37' 41° 17'
Jabal Thamamah 25° 21' 46° 51' Wadi Uranah 21° 21' 39° 57'
Jana Island 27° 22' 49° 18' Wadi Wajj 21° 10' 40° 16'
Jeddah 21° 30' 39°12' Wosanib 18° 34' 42° 23'
Jizan 16° 56' 42°33'
Jubail 26°57' 49° 34'

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Figure 1. Map of Saudi Arabia showing localities of reported rodents.
Figure 1. Map of Saudi Arabia showing localities of reported rodents.
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Figure 5. Heat map showing rodents species richness in Saudi Arabia.
Figure 5. Heat map showing rodents species richness in Saudi Arabia.
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Table 1. Zoogeographical affinities of the rodents of Saudi Arabia.
Table 1. Zoogeographical affinities of the rodents of Saudi Arabia.
Species Present study Delany [76]
Eliomys melanurus Afr-Pal Afr-Pal-Or
Jaculus loftusi Pal Afr-Pal
Scarturus euphratica Pal Not listed
Gerbillus cheesmani Pal Pal
Gerbillus dasyurus Pal Pal
Gerbillus henleyi Afr-Pal Afr
Gerbillus nanus Afr-Pal-Or Afr-Pal-Or
Gerbillus poecilops Endemic Endemic
Meriones crassus Afr-Pal-Or Afr-Pal
Meriones libycus Afr-Pal-Or Afr-Pal
Meriones rex Endemic Endemic
Psammomys obesus Afr-Pal Not listed
Sekeetamys calurus Afr-Pal Not listed
Acomys dimidiatus Afr-Pal Afr-Pal
Acomys russatus Afr-Pal Afr-Pal
Mus musculus Cosmopolitan Introduced
Myomyscus yemeni Endemic Endemic
Rattus norvegicus Cosmopolitan Introduced
Rattus rattus Cosmopolitan Introduced
Hystrix indica Pal-Or Pal-Or
Table 3. Conservation status of rodents in Saudi Arabia.
Table 3. Conservation status of rodents in Saudi Arabia.
Species IUCN global assessment IUCN Mediterranean assessment [77] IUCN national assessment
Eliomys melanurus LC LC LC
Jaculus loftusi LC LC* LC
Scarturus euphratica LC NT EN
Gerbillus cheesmani LC LC LC
Gerbillus dasyurus LC LC LC
Gerbillus henleyi LC LC DD
Gerbillus nanus LC LC LC
Gerbillus poecilops LC NA DD
Meriones crassus LC LC LC
Meriones libycus LC LC LC
Meriones rex LC NA LC
Psammomys obesus LC LC LC
Sekeetamys calurus LC LC DD
Acomys dimidiatus LC LC LC
Acomys russatus LC LC LC
Mus musculus LC LC LC
Myomyscus yemeni DD NA LC
Rattus norvegicus LC LC LC
Rattus rattus LC LC LC
Hystrix indica LC LC NT
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