In response to increasing human population pressure in the Amazonas State of Venezuela greater attention is being given to the "minilivestock" production of the wild rodents paca (Agouti paca,) and agouti (Dasyprocta spp) as sources of food and income and to reduce the risk of their possible extinction. In preparation for the increased farming of these rodents, this paper reviews published material on their characteristics, distribution, habitat, conservation status, behaviour, reproductive parameters and nutrition. It is concluded that the two rodents paca and agouti, have characteristics that justify greater investment in their domestication and farmed production, although and behavioural issues and reproductive limits need further research.