What is a common trait of membrane rodents, such as rats and mice?

Rats and mice, classified as membrane rodents, exhibit a high reproductive potential, which is a significant characteristic of their biology. This trait allows them to multiply quickly, often producing multiple litters per year, which can significantly contribute to their populations in various environments. High reproductive rates enable these species to adapt rapidly to changing conditions, occupy different niches, and recover swiftly from population declines due to environmental pressures or predation.

Their biological makeup supports high reproductive output, such as shorter gestation periods and larger litter sizes. This adaptability in their breeding can be a key factor in why these rodents are commonly found in diverse habitats and can become significant pests in human environments.

In contrast, low adaptability could hinder a species' survival in fluctuating environments, high social behavior may not be a defining trait for all rodents, and a preference for open spaces does not accurately encapsulate the diverse habitats that rats and mice can inhabit, as they often thrive in more enclosed or urban settings as well.