About Spalax microphthalmus Guldenstaedt, 1770
Tail Morphology
The greater blind mole-rat (Spalax microphthalmus Guldenstaedt, 1770) is tailless.
Eye Structure
Its eyes are covered by a membrane of skin; the eyes contain atrophied lens cells enclosed in a vesicle and a retinal layer.
Incisor Teeth Function
This species has prominent incisor teeth, which it uses for burrowing.
Fur Coloration
Its fur is generally greyish, but can vary in color.
Size and Weight
Adults can grow up to 31 cm (12 in) in length and weigh up to 570 g (20 oz).
Dental Formula
The species has a dental formula of 1.0.0.3 / 1.0.0.3.
Geographic Range
This greater blind mole-rat is found in the steppes of Ukraine and southern Russia, between the Dnieper and Volga rivers. Its range extends north to the Oryol to Kursk railway line and south to the North Caucasus.
Soil Preferences
It prefers lowland habitats with black earth, and avoids sandy or loamy soils.
Habitat and Pest Status
It lives in steppes, forest steppes, agricultural land, plantations, orchards, and gardens, and can act as a pest.
