It is related to Cricetomys gambianus, the Gambian pouched rat.

Both species belong to Cricetomys, the genus of the giant pouched rats.

These animals were introduced into the exotic pet trade, but have been banned by the CDC and FDA after an outbreak of monkeypox.

[citation needed] They are native to Africa and are found along the edges of forests and along the plains.

Unfortunately, many dealers and breeders failed to recognize the difference in the two species and some even tried breeding the two together.