What is the largest native rodent in North America found in Arkansas?

The largest native rodent in North America found in Arkansas is indeed the beaver. Beavers are well-known for their distinct physical traits, including their large, flat tails and webbed feet, which make them highly adapted to an aquatic lifestyle. They can weigh up to 60 pounds or more, which contributes to their status as the largest rodent in the region.

Beavers play a significant ecological role by modifying their environment. They create wetlands by building dams, which can enhance habitats for various wildlife species and improve water quality. Their activities have a substantial impact on the ecosystem, promoting biodiversity.

The capybara is the largest rodent in the world but is not native to North America, thus disqualifying it in this context. The nutria is another large rodent but is an introduced species and is not as large as the beaver. Common rats, while abundant, are not nearly as large as beavers and do not compare in size or ecological impact.