Molecular studies strongly place Zokors in which modern Family?
Answer
Spalacidae
Modern scientific consensus, heavily supported by molecular phylogenetic studies, establishes the Zokor's placement within the Family Spalacidae. This family grouping connects them directly with mole rats. Historically, there was uncertainty, leading to suggestions of links to hamsters (*Cricetinae*) or voles (*Arvicolinae*), and one older systematic entry even placed the Siberian Zokor within the Family Muridae. However, genetic evidence firmly supports Spalacidae, reflecting a significant evolutionary divergence among muroid rodents that separates these deep burrowing forms from non-burrowing lineages.
Related Questions
To which Class do Zokors belong based on characteristics like fur and endothermy?Molecular studies strongly place Zokors in which modern Family?What is the distinct taxonomic unit for Zokors at the subfamily level?Which two living genera currently comprise the Zokors?What skull feature differentiates the *Myospalax* and *Eospalax* clades?What key morphological distinction separates Zokors' digging habits from other Spalacidae?Which extinct Zokor genus is known from the Late Miocene fossil record?Which species is specifically identified as the Siberian Zokor or Altai Zokor?What geological event is closely linked in timing to the split between *Eospalax* lineages?To which Suborder within the Order Rodentia are Zokors assigned?