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Book of Abstracts 16th IOC - Distribution and hábitat use of the neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis) in the northwest of Corrientes province, Argentina
Congress
Date:
2025Publishing House and Editing Place:
OSGSummary *
The Neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis) is a semi-aquatic carnivore considered a top predator in aquatic freshwater ecosystems. While it is classified as Near Threatened globally and in Argentina, mostly because of its wide range, in the province of Corrientes is considered by law as a provincial natural monument. However, only a few studies were done in this area. Therefore, the objectives of this research were to evaluate distribution and habitat use of L. longicaudis in the Riachuelo Basin, including both protected and unprotected areas within the province of Corrientes, Argentina. We found twenty-one signs of the presence of the Neotropical river otter during February, April and May. The species did not demonstrate an observable pattern of distribution according to different kinds of habitat and degree of protection of studied areas. The anthropic presence does not seem to be an important factor to determine the presence of the Neotropical otter in this study area. However, it appears that residual water bodies during drought periods would be a factor to consider in determining space use. From this study, new questions arise to continue long-term research on the species in the region, and it represents the beginning of monitoring efforts in both protected and non-protected areas to make conservation recommendations for the species. Information provided by the agent in SIGEVAKey Words
CONSERVATIONNEOTROPICAL OTTERHABITAT USE