Biologia e genética de Lontra longicaudis (Olfers, 1818) (Mammalia, Mustelidae): uma revisão e ensaio a respeito do uso de marcadores moleculares

Abstract

The neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis) is one of the 13 species of otter and has one of the widest geographic distribution, occurring from the north of Mexico until northern Argentina. Along its distribution the species, inhabits a variety of habitats facing different environmental quality levels. The availability of food and places to build burrows are the key factors to its occurrence. The species is defined as top predator and because its generalist habits, it has been suggested as a community structure species. Although the species tend to be generalist it shows a preferences for fishes and crustaceans in its diet. Its IUCN classification (data deficient) is based mainly on studies related to its diet and habitat use. Nevertheless, information about the species still have too much gaps in relation to populations studies, current distribution and environment requirements. This paper aims to review the current status and species information with the purpose of propose future conservation actions for the species, and therefore propose further information to enable a most appropriate classification on the conservation status of the neotropical otter.