Tolypeutes
The genus Tolypeutes contains the two species of three-banded armadillos. They are restricted to open and semi-open habitats in South America.
Of the several armadillo genera, only Tolypeutes rely heavily on their armor for protection. When threatened by a predator, Tolypeutes species frequently roll up into a ball. Other armadillo species cannot roll up because they have too many plates.
Species
There are two recognized species:| Image | Scientific name | Common Name | Distribution |
| Tolypeutes matacus | Southern three-banded armadillo | northern Argentina, southwestern Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia | |
| Tolypeutes tricinctus | Brazilian three-banded armadillo | Brazil |