Caviinae

Caviinae is a subfamily of South American rodents belonging to the family Caviidae. This subfamily includes the cavies (also known as guinea pigs) and their close relatives such as the mountain cavies (Kerodon) and the Patagonian cavies (Dolichotis).

Members of the Caviinae are typically small to medium-sized rodents with a stocky build. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses and other vegetation. They occupy a variety of habitats in South America, ranging from grasslands and scrublands to mountainous regions.

Caviinae species exhibit diverse social behaviors. Some species, like the domestic guinea pig (Cavia porcellus), are highly social and live in groups, while others, like the rock cavy (Kerodon rupestris), are more solitary.

The domestic guinea pig is an important laboratory animal and is also kept as a pet worldwide. Other Caviinae species play important roles in their native ecosystems as herbivores and prey animals.

The classification within Caviinae has been subject to revision based on morphological and molecular data. Recent studies suggest a complex evolutionary history with ongoing research refining the relationships between the various genera and species.

The survival of some Caviinae species is threatened by habitat loss and hunting, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect these unique South American rodents.