Named for the fur on its back which, when stroked against the direction of the hair follicles, becomes coarse and spine-like, the Arabian spiny mouse belongs to the genus Acomys, a name which arises from two Greek words: ‘Akoke’ meaning sharp point and ‘mus’ meaning mouse. It is thought that this ‘spiny’ fur provides this tiny mouse with some form of protection against predators. Spiny mice also have long, slender tails, which appear naked but on closer inspection have short bristles. The Body color of Arabian spiny mouse pale-brown to brown, dark on dorsum especially mid-dorsum and Venter and feet white. They have dark tan fur, with the tips of the hairs tinted grey in adults. Ear large, with white basal and posterior patches. Pelage spiny from behind shoulder onto rump, but not on side.