Spalacidae: Eurasian Subterranean Rodents
The Spalacidae are Eurasian, primarily East Mediterranean
subterranean rodents (fig. 25.1a, b) that are highly adapted
for life underground (Ognev 1947; Topachevskii 1969;
Savic ́ and Nevo 1990; Nevo 1991, 1999; Nevo et al. 2001).
Morphologically, these rodents are cylindrical, powerful,
heavy-bodied animals with short limbs, claws, and pro-
jecting incisors (fig. 25.2a – c). The head and body length
ranges from 130 to 310 mm with a minute stubby tail,
which is not visible externally. Average weights range from
less than 100 to 570 g (fig. 25.1d). Body sizes vary geo-
graphically with climate, soil type, and habitat productiv-
ity. Pelage color varies from dark brown to yellowish gray
and is related to soil color, suggesting differential above-
ground predation (Heth, Beiles et al. 1988). White stripes
may occur on the head. The pelage is dense, soft, and im-
perfectibly reversible. Bristly, apparently tactile, facial hairsChapter 25Evolution of Pacifism and
Sociality in Blind Mole-Rats
Eviatar Nevo
Figure 25.1 Spalaxmole rats. (a), (b), (e) Spalax ehrenbergisuperspecies in Israel. Note the distinct nose pad, no external eye and pinna, small ear open-
ing, and short limbs. Photo K. Rybalko. (c) Spalax ehrenbergisuperspecies, 2n60, new species from El Alamein, North Africa (Nevo et al. 1991a – c, 1992).
Animals behave socially as a group. (d) Comparison of the largest S. microphthalmusfrom the Ukraine and S. ehrenbergi 2n60, now named Spalax ju-
daei,from Israel; the Ukraine Spalaxis 5-fold larger. (e) Spalax —a ventral view. Photo E. Nevo.