Thryonomys

(cane rats), the single genus of rodents belonging to the family Thryonomidae. The body measures up to 60 cm in length, and the tail up to 25 cm. The fur is coarse, bristly, and grayish brown on the upper side of the body. There are six species, distributed in Africa south of the Sahara. Cane rats lead a solitary nocturnal life, mainly inhabiting swampy areas. The flesh is edible.