Five-Finger Jerbo (Allactaga euphratica):

History and Distribution: The five-fingered gerbil (Allactaga euphratica) is a species of gerbil found in Asia, specifically in regions of Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, and parts of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. It is also commonly referred to as "Persian gerbil".

Physical Description: Five-toed gerbils are small rodents with large ears and a long, hairy tail. They have a soft, dense coat that is usually sand or light brown, providing them with camouflage in their desert habitat. Its "five-toed" name comes from the presence of five fingers on the hind legs.

Behavior and Habits: They are nocturnal and twilight animals, being more active at night and at sunset to avoid the high temperatures of the day in the desert. They are known for their jumping skills and can perform long, fast jumps to drift around the sandy terrain.

Diet: The diet of five-toed gerbils consists mainly of seeds, grains and vegetation that they find in their natural habitat. They can also consume insects and other small invertebrates.

Reproduction and Parenting: Reproduction follows the typical pattern of gerbils. Females may have litters that vary in size, and the young are altricipal at birth, depending on the mother for care and feeding.

Care in Captivity: These gerbils are not commonly kept as pets compared to other gerbils species. In captivity, they will need an environment that simulates their natural habitat, with substrate to dig and hiding places. In addition, a balanced diet and constant access to fresh water should be provided.

Trivia:

• Five-toed gerbils are known for their ability to jump surprising distances.
• They have physiological adaptations, such as highly efficient kidneys, that allow them to survive in desert environments where water is scarce.

Colors and Variations: The fur of five-toed gerbils is generally sand or light brown, providing them with desert camouflage. Their coat can vary in hue depending on the specific environment in which they are found.

In short, five-toed gerbils are fascinating rodents adapted to life in desert settings in Asia. Their jumping skills, nocturnal behavior and desert adaptations make them interesting both in their natural habitat and in captivity, although they are not as common as pets compared to other gerbils species.