There are two species in this family. They are found in Sub-Saharan Africa.

They live in wet, swampy areas near lakes and marshes with lots of grasses and reeds.

They can grow to be up to two feet long and can weigh as much as 15 pounds.

They have stocky bodies, short legs, large heads, small eyes and ears, medium-length tails, and coarse brown fur.

They are nocturnal and are good swimmers. They eat fruit, roots, bark, shrubs, and other plant parts. Cane rats often damage crops.