Definition
Orycteropodidae is the family to which the aardvark (Orycteropus afer) belongs. This family is characterized by having only one extant species, the aardvark. These animals have unique dental structures without enamel and powerful digging claws. Think of them as the singular architects of underground tunnels. They are nocturnal and insectivorous. Their specialized adaptations make them truly unique. They occupy a distinctive ecological niche.