The spiny rat is the largest family of rodents in South America. They are very adaptable and live in a variety of environments. The common spiny rat can live five to seven years. The spiny rat has a long tail perched on the tree, the spiny rat has a short tail on the ground, and the one in between is active both on the tree and on the ground. They generally live alone, and some species gather in small groups, and they are also called needle mice because their bodies are covered with needle-like bristles or thorns. Some species are extinct and are more closely related to guinea pigs and chinchillas.

The spiny mouse resembles a spiny mouse in appearance, and some species cut off their tails when attacked, but their tails do not regenerate like lizards. Most Acanthus are plantFood.