Source: Wikimedia Commons
Fat-tailed Gerbil
IntermediateGerbil with a distinctive fat, club-shaped tail. Also called Duprasi. Docile desert rodent that tames easily.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
18〜26℃
Lifespan
5-7 years
Size
10-12cm / 40-60g
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Gerbil pellets, seeds, dried vegetables, occasional insects
About
The fat-tailed gerbil (Pachyuromys duprasi), also known as the duprasi or bubble rat, is a small rodent native to the sandy deserts of North Africa, including Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. Adults measure 10–12 cm in body length and weigh 40–60 g. The defining feature is a short, club-shaped tail that stores fat reserves as an adaptation to desert food scarcity—analogous to the fat-tailed sheep or gecko. Compared to the Mongolian gerbil, fat-tailed gerbils are calmer and less prone to biting, making them relatively easy to handle. They are most active at dusk and dawn. Housing in a glass tank is recommended to prevent escapes and maintain the dry environment they prefer. A sand bath area and deep, diggable substrate should be provided. Diet consists of seed mix supplemented with small amounts of fresh vegetables; high-moisture foods should be limited. Optimal temperature is 20–26 °C. Common health concerns include neoplasia, dermatitis, and respiratory infections. Lifespan is 3–5 years.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
North Africa (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia)
Lifespan
5-7 years
Size
10-12cm / 40-60g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Gerbil pellets, seeds, dried vegetables, occasional insects
Care Guide
Cage
Glass tank type recommended. Provide sand bath area
Diet
Desert species — less water needed. Focus on dry foods
Temperament
Calm with slow movements. Easy to handle
Notes
Stores nutrition in tail. Thin tail indicates malnutrition
IntermediateFat tailDocileDesert species
Fat-tailed Gerbil FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Fat-tailed Gerbil?
A
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Fat-tailed Gerbil?
A
The ideal temperature for Fat-tailed Gerbil is 18〜26℃. Recommended humidity is 40〜60%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Fat-tailed Gerbil?
A
The average lifespan of Fat-tailed Gerbil is 5-7 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
QHow large does Fat-tailed Gerbil get?
A
Fat-tailed Gerbil typically reaches 10-12cm / 40-60g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
QWhat should I feed Fat-tailed Gerbil?
A
Fat-tailed Gerbil feeds on: Gerbil pellets, seeds, dried vegetables, occasional insects. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
QWhat is the typical price for Fat-tailed Gerbil?
A
The price of Fat-tailed Gerbil varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
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