What would the world be like without rats?

Without rats, ecosystems would experience significant shifts, as these animals play crucial roles in food webs and nutrient cycling. Many predators, such as hawks and snakes, would face food shortages, potentially leading to declines in their populations. Additionally, the absence of rats could disrupt urban environments, where they often serve as scavengers. However, the reduction of their populations might also alleviate some health concerns, as rats are known carriers of various diseases.