Fiber zibethicus; Print; The muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus); the only species in genus Ondatra and tribe Ondatrini; is a medium-sized semiaquatic rodent native to North America and an introduced species in parts of Europe; Asia; and South America. The muskrat is found in wetlands over a wide range of climates and habitats. It has important effects on the ecology of wetlands; and is a resource of food and fur for humans.; 1700-1880