A characteristic of rodent is

Options

A. long incisors
B. long canines
C. hooves
D. nails

Answer

### Step-by-Step Text Solution:

1. **Identify the Classification of Rodents**:
- Rodents belong to the kingdom Mammalia and the order Rodentia. The term "Rodentia" is derived from the Latin word "roder," which means "to gnaw."

2. **Understand the Characteristics of Rodents**:
- Rodents are characterized by their ability to gnaw or cut materials. This is a defining trait of the order.

3. **Examples of Rodents**:
- Common examples of rodents include rats, mice, and squirrels. These animals exhibit the characteristic features of the rodent order.

4. **Key Feature of Rodents**:
- A significant characteristic of rodents is their long incisors. These teeth are present in both the upper and lower jaws and are essential for their gnawing behavior.

5. **Function of Long Incisors**:
- The long incisors of rodents continuously grow throughout their lives. They are used for cutting and chewing food, as well as for defense mechanisms.

6. **Evaluate Other Options**:
- Other options such as long canines, hooves, and nails do not correctly describe the characteristics of rodents:
- Rodents do not have long canines.
- Hooves are specific to certain mammals like horses and are not a characteristic of rodents.
- Rodent nails are not specialized like those of other animals.

7. **Conclusion**:
- The correct characteristic of rodents is that they have long incisors, which are crucial for their gnawing ability.