The capybara, known as carpincho, is the largest extant rodent on Earth, with adults weighing between 35 and 66 kilograms. This animal inhabits humid environments in South America and spends significant time near water. Despite their calm appearance today, capybaras have a rich evolutionary history characterized by migrations, developments of gigantism, and species extinctions. Their lineage has adapted to geological and climatic changes long before the arrival of humans on the continent.

The capybara belongs to the caviomorph group, which includes other rodents like cavy, maras, and chinchillas. Researchers trace their lineage back to Africa, indicating that capybaras and their relatives evolved in response to various environmental pressures. Over millions of years, they experienced several biological adaptations that facilitated their survival in diverse habitats across the continent.

Today, capybaras feature prominently in popular culture, symbolized in memes and social media, reflecting their unique characteristics and ecological significance. Understanding the evolutionary path of capybaras not only illuminates the past of this remarkable rodent but also emphasizes the need to protect their habitats in the face of environmental challenges.