The Family Caviidae comprises rodents commonly known as cavies, including guinea pigs, capybaras, and maras. These mammals are herbivorous, feeding mainly on grasses and other plant material, and are found primarily in Central and South America. Members of Caviidae are generally social animals, often living in groups with complex communication through vocalizations and scent marking. They have robust bodies, short limbs, and ever-growing teeth adapted for continuous grazing. Ecologically, cavies play important roles as prey species for predators and as seed dispersers, while some, like guinea pigs, have also become important in research and as domesticated pets.