Which common global rat species is explicitly mentioned as being distinct from the traditionally consumed wild game in China?
Answer
*Rattus norvegicus*
The text is careful to draw a line between the traditionally consumed meat source and common urban pests. When addressing the topic of eating rats in China, the discussion specifically excludes the common brown rat, scientifically termed *Rattus norvegicus*, as well as the black rat (*Rattus rattus*). These commensal species associated with city infrastructure are conceptually separated from the larger, often farmed, bamboo rats which are viewed as specialized wild game. Acknowledging this distinction between urban vermin and specialized wild animals is considered a vital piece of context often missing in generalized discussions.

Related Questions
Which specific rodent species is primarily referenced in discussions about traditional Chinese rat meat consumption?Bamboo rat meat in China is categorized under what type of specialized cuisine tradition?What major event triggered the nationwide ban on farming and trading bamboo rats in China in 2020?What do farmed or hunted bamboo rats primarily feed on, setting them apart from urban pests?What is one mentioned preparation method for bamboo rat meat alongside dried tofu and mushrooms?In which part of China is the consumption of bamboo rats traditionally centered or primarily occurring?What was a profound implication of the 2020 ban for established bamboo rat farmers?What is the likely sentiment in major metropolitan areas regarding seeing a common rat on the street today?Which common global rat species is explicitly mentioned as being distinct from the traditionally consumed wild game in China?How is China's current regulatory situation regarding farmed bamboo rats distinct from consumption in other regions?