The guinea pig is a small rodent belonging to the family Caviidae and the genus Cavia. Despite their common name, they are not of the pig family, nor are they from Guinea. In fact, how the guinea pig got its common name has long been debated. They originated in the Andes and have an important role in the culture of many indigenous South American groups, especially as a food source. In Western societies however, they are quite popular as pets. The one pictured is a black-haired silkie guinea pig.