Because the Amazon bamboo rat spends most of its time in heavily forested areas, it is difficult to observe, and not much is known about its habits.

The Amazon bamboo rat has a body length of over 60 centimetres (24 in) from the nose to the tip of the tail,[6] and weighs approximately 600–750 grams (21–26 oz).

[6] It has elongated digits, which are an adaptation for the rat's frequent need to climb, hence the species name: dactylinus derives from the ancient greek word δάκτυλος (dáktulos), meaning "finger".

The Amazon bamboo rat's slow and cautious manner of climbing has the added effect of making its movements completely silent, helping to protect it from predators.

[5] Because of its limited diet of bamboo and local vines, it is more abundant in regions of Latin America where its preferred food sources are plentiful.

One female Amazon bamboo rat was collected in Brazil in June bearing two embryos, one of which had a crown-rump length of 97 millimetres (3.8 in).