sand rat

US /ˈsænd ræt/
UK /ˈsænd ræt/
"sand rat" picture
1.

a small, burrowing rodent (Psammomys obesus) native to desert regions of North Africa and the Middle East, known for its ability to survive on a diet of salt-rich plants.

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The sand rat is well-adapted to arid environments.
Researchers study the sand rat for its unique metabolic properties.