[3] Currently, there are four species recognized: A 2020 paper published on the taxonomy of Sciurinae split Microsciurus into three genera, one currently unnamed.

The paper included genetic sampling from all species except Santander dwarf squirrel and (Microsciurus) simonsi.

Microsciurus species have gray or brown backs, and white bellies.

All dwarf squirrels in this genus live in tropical rain forests.

[5] The IUCN lists the conservation status as "Least Concern" for three of the species and "Data Deficient" for Microsciurus santanderensis.