About Echinoprocta rufescens Gray, 1865
Nomenclature and Taxonomic Placement
The stump-tailed porcupine, scientifically known as Coendou rufescens, is a rodent species that belongs to the family Erethizontidae.
Distribution Range
It is found primarily in Colombia, with only a small number of recorded observations from Ecuador.
Former Taxonomic Classification
This species was sometimes previously classified in the genus Echinoprocta, a genus that is no longer recognized.
Genetic Taxonomic Evidence
Genetic studies demonstrated that the stump-tailed porcupine actually nests within the genus Coendou.
Closest Living Relative
Its closest living relative is the Andean porcupine, Coendou quichua.
