Spalax is a genus of burrowing rodents commonly known as blind mole rats. They are primarily found in parts of Eastern Europe and Asia, where they inhabit underground tunnels. These rodents have small eyes and are adapted to a subterranean lifestyle, relying on their keen sense of touch and smell rather than sight. Blind mole rats have a cylindrical body, short limbs, and large, powerful front teeth that help them dig through soil. They primarily feed on roots and tubers, playing a significant role in their ecosystem by aerating the soil and influencing plant growth.