IUCN Species of the Day: Aquatic Tenrec

 

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(tm)
Aquatic tenerec credit Kevin H Barnes

Photo credit: Kevin H. Barnes

 

The Aquatic Tenre, Limnogale mergulus, is listed as ‘VULNERABLE’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™. This nocturnal, semi-aquatic mammal, also known as the Web-footed Tenrec, is endemic to the eastern humid forests and central highlands of Madagascar. It feeds on aquatic invertebrates and may be dependent on the availability of permanent, clean and fast-flowing water where its prey thrives.

Owing to its specific habitat requirements, the Aquatic Tenrec is threatened by soil erosion and siltation caused by deforestation. Agricultural expansion is fragmenting the upland forests, thereby isolating fast-flowing riverine habitat. Individuals are also sometimes killed in fish traps.

This species is only known from two protected areas: Ranomafana National Park and the Andringitra National Park. The prevention of erosion and sedimentation is paramount for its conservation. Therefore, Aquatic Tenrec habitat needs to be protected from sedimentation wherever possible, for instance by inclusion of forested catchments in the protected areas network, by effective terracing of agricultural fields, and by maintenance of vegetated riparian zones.

 

Geographic Region of the Aquatic Tenrec

Geographical region of Aquatic Tenrec

Credit: IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™

 

To learn more about the Aquatic Tenrec, click here. Or visit the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ by clicking their logo below.

To learn more about the Bush Warriors “Species of the Day” feature, please click here and read up on our initiative to raise awareness about the loss of earth’s biodiversity.

 

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