Lecture Notes: Rabbit

Introduction

• Rabbits are small mammals in the family Leporidae, order Lagomorpha.
• Commonly known as herbivores, prey animals, and domesticated pets.
• Significant ecological impact and cultural symbolism.

Genera

• Oryctolagus: Includes the European rabbit, ancestor of many domestic breeds.
• Sylvilagus: Includes wild rabbit species like cottontails.

Classification

• Order: Lagomorpha
• Family: Leporidae
• Notable genera: Pentalagus, Bunolagus, Nesolagus, Romerolagus, Brachylagus, Sylvilagus, Oryctolagus, Poelagus, Caprolagus, Pronolagus
• Cladistically related to, but not a clade with, hares (Lepus).

Biological Characteristics

Physiology

• Adapted for predator evasion: wide field of vision, sensitive ears, strong hind legs for hopping.
• Notable for nocturnal activity and reproductive habits.

Reproduction

• High reproductive rate with short pregnancies.
• High mortality rate of embryos.

Human Interaction

• Historically used for meat, fur, and wool.
• Domestication dates back to ancient Rome.
• Cuniculture refers to raising rabbits as livestock.
• Rabbits symbolically represent fertility and innocence.

Diseases

• Susceptible to diseases like rabbit hemorrhagic disease and myxomatosis.
• Certain parasites can also affect rabbits.

Ecology and Environmental Impact

• Native to various continents, introduced widely.
• Considered pests in some regions due to ecological damage, especially in Australia.

Evolution

• Rabbits and rodents diverged from a common ancestor, yet share some evolutionary traits.
• Rabbits have specialized anatomical features for their lifestyle.

Other Topics

Folklore and Mythology

• Appear in many cultural myths, often as trickster figures.
• Associated with lunar deities in some traditions.

Modern Representation

• Popular in literature and media, often anthropomorphized.

Conclusion

• Rabbits are significant both biologically and culturally, impacting ecosystems and human societies.