ORYCTOLAGUS (RABBIT)

Contents hide

1) Introduction

2) Classification of Oryctolagus (Rabbit)

3) Geographical distribution

4) Habit and habitat

5) General Characteristics of Oryctolagus (Rabbit)

6) Ecological Importance

7) Conservation Status

8) Special features

9) Identification

Introduction

Oryctolagus cuniculus, commonly known as the European rabbit, is a small mammal native to the Iberian Peninsula and parts of North Africa. It is the progenitor of all domestic rabbit breeds and plays a significant ecological and economic role. However, in areas where it has been introduced, such as Australia, it is considered an invasive species due to its impact on native ecosystems and agriculture.

Classification of Oryctolagus (Rabbit)

Phylum :- Chordata (Dorsal tubular nerve cord, notochord and gill-slits present.)
Group :- Craniata (Definite head, Cranium with brain present.)
Sub phylum :- Vertebrata (Vertebral column present.)
Division :- Gnathostomata (Jaws and paired appendages present.)
Super Class :- Tetrapoda (Paired limbs, lungs, cornified skin and bony skeleton.)
Class :- Mammalia (Body covered with hairs. Females have mammary glands.)
Order :- Lagomorpha (Upper incisors 2 pairs.)
Family: Leporidae
Genus :- Oryctolagus

Geographical distribution

Cosmopoliton

Habit and habitat

Inhabiting fields, grasslands and woodlands. Gregarious, crepuscular (coming out of burrows for feeding in twilight), coprophagous (eating again their soft stool for maximum nourishment and polygamous.

General Characteristics of Oryctolagus (Rabbit)

Commonly called as Rabbit.
Body cat-like and divisible into head, neck, trunk abdomen and tail.
Head contains long tactile vibrisae or whiskers, external nares, usually shorter eyes and mouth.
External ears large having external auditory meatus.
Length 40 cm from mouth to anus.
Fur colour white, black, brown or spotted.
Males have muscular skin-covered penis.
Females have clitoris.
Forelimbs used for digging and hind limbs for leaping. Fast runner (30 to 40 km per hour).
Forelimbs contain upper arm, forearm, metacarpus, hand and clawed fingers.
Hind limb contains thigh, shank, metatarsus, foot and clawed toes.

Ecological Importance

Ecosystem Engineers: European rabbits dig extensive burrow systems (warrens), which provide shelter for other animals like reptiles, birds, and insects.
Food Source: They are a vital prey species for numerous predators, including foxes, eagles, owls, and feral cats.
Vegetation Management: Through grazing, rabbits can influence plant community structures, sometimes promoting biodiversity but potentially causing overgrazing.
Soil Aeration: Their burrowing activities enhance soil aeration and nutrient cycling, benefiting plant growth.

Conservation Status

Native Range: IUCN Status: Endangered in its native range due to habitat loss, diseases (myxomatosis and RHDV), and overhunting.
Introduced Ranges: Invasive in regions like Australia and New Zealand, where they cause ecological and agricultural damage.
Threats in Native Range:
- Habitat fragmentation.
- Competition with livestock for grazing.
- Predation by invasive species like feral cats and dogs.
Conservation Efforts:
- Reintroduction and habitat restoration projects in native areas.
- Disease management programs.
- Legal protection in some regions to prevent overexploitation.

Special features

High Reproductive Rate: Rabbits are prolific breeders, with females capable of producing several litters annually.
Social Structure: They live in complex social groups within warrens, exhibiting cooperative behavior.
Digestion and Cecotrophy: Rabbits re-ingest partially digested food (cecotropes) to maximize nutrient absorption.
Adaptability: Rabbits thrive in diverse habitats, including grasslands, forests, and deserts, showcasing their resilience.
Economic and Cultural Significance: Domesticated rabbits are a source of meat, fur, and companionship. In contrast, wild rabbits have ecological and hunting value in their native range.