A subfamily of rodents in the family Cricetidae that includes voles, lemmings, and muskrats, characterized by their adapted teeth and small size.
Modern Latin taxonomic name derived from 'arvicola' (field-dwelling rodent) with the subfamily suffix '-inae.' This scientific classification reflects the group's ecological niche in grassy habitats.
Arvicolinae rodents have constantly growing teeth that never stop throughout their lives—they must gnaw constantly to keep them worn down, and their tooth patterns are so distinctive that paleontologists use them as reliable markers for dating ancient rock layers.
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