Ondatra zibethica is commonly known as the muskrat, a semiaquatic rodent found throughout North America. Synonyms for the word muskrat include marsh rat, water rat, and marsh rabbit. The muskrat is best known for its unique habitat preferences, as it prefers to live in wetland environments such as swamps, marshes, and ponds. Other synonyms for Ondatra zibethica include the Algonquin name for the animal, monigan, as well as the French word rat musque, which means "musky rat." Despite its small size, the muskrat plays an important role in the ecosystem of wetland habitats, as it helps to maintain the critical balance of this delicate environment.