Amami rabbit

The Amami rabbit (Pentalagus furnessi), also known as the Ryukyu rabbit, is a dark-furred species of rabbit found only on Amami Ōshima and Tokunoshima, two small islands between southern Kyūshū and Okinawa in Japan. This unique animal is often called a living fossil because it is a surviving remnant of ancient rabbits that once lived on the Asian mainland. These ancient rabbits eventually disappeared from the mainland, but they continue to live on these isolated Japanese islands today.

The Amami rabbit is special to scientists and nature lovers because it gives us a rare glimpse into what rabbits looked like many thousands of years ago. Protecting this species helps preserve important natural history and ensures that future generations can learn about these fascinating animals.

Evolution

The Amami rabbit, Pentalagus, comes from an ancient rabbit called Pliopentalagus. This rabbit lived in China and Europe long ago during the Pliocene epoch. It is related to a rabbit from North America named Aztlanolagus. This rabbit disappeared over 30,000 years ago. Today, the closest living relative of the Amami rabbit is the Bunyoro rabbit from Central Africa. The Amami rabbit has 46 diploid chromosomes, which is different from most other rabbits.

Etymology

The name Pentalagus describes a special feature of the Amami rabbit. This rabbit has five molars on each side of its upper jaw, instead of six like other rabbits. The name furnessi honors William Henry Furness III, who first discovered this rabbit.

Biology

The Amami rabbit eats many types of plants. These include shrubs, herbaceous plants, shoots, acorns, nuts, and cambium. In summer, it likes Japanese pampas grass. In winter, it eats acorns from the pasania tree. It also eats fruits from a special plant called Balanophora yuwanensis.

This rabbit has short feet and a strong body. It has strong claws for digging and climbing. Its ears are smaller than other rabbits. Its fur is thick and woolly, and it is dark brown with a reddish tinge on the sides. It weighs between 2.5–2.8 kg (5.5–6.2 lb). Amami rabbits live where young and mature forests grow close together. They use dense forests for shelter and food. They are active at night and rest during the day in hidden spots like caves. They have a call similar to that of a pika.

Endangered species

The Amami rabbit was once threatened by hunting and trapping. Japan protected it in 1921 and again in 1963.

Today, the biggest threats to the Amami rabbit are losing its home and invasive animals. Forests where these rabbits live are being cleared for logging, farming, and building. The rabbits need both mature and young forests to thrive. Invasive animals like the small Indian mongoose, feral cats, and dogs also hunt the rabbits. Efforts are underway to control these animals and restore habitats. Some areas, like Amami Guntō National Park, help protect the rabbits. Researchers are monitoring rabbit populations and working on plans to keep their numbers stable.