Deomyinae

Deomyinae is a subfamily of muroid rodents within the family Muridae. These rodents are found primarily in Africa and the Middle East. They are characterized by a number of distinctive features, including their unique tooth structure and the presence of a specialized prostate gland.

Generally, members of the Deomyinae are small to medium-sized rodents, exhibiting a variety of ecological niches. Some species are arboreal, while others are terrestrial. Their diets also vary, consisting of insects, seeds, fruits, and other plant matter.

The taxonomy of Deomyinae has been subject to revision. It currently includes several genera, such as Acomys (spiny mice), Deomys (link rat), and Lophuromys (brush-furred mice). Phylogenetic analyses using molecular data have helped to clarify the relationships among the different genera within the subfamily.

Deomyinae rodents play important roles in the ecosystems they inhabit, acting as seed dispersers and prey for various predators. Some species, particularly Acomys, are also used as model organisms in biomedical research.