Invasive Mammals in Argentina

LIZARRALDE, M; OJEDA, R; FLUCK, WT; GUICHÓN, ML; BONINO, NA

Mendoza, Argentina

Congreso; 10th International Mammalogical Congress; 2009

International Federation of Mammalogists- SAREM

Introduction of wildlife have subsequently become established in ecosystemsparticularly vulnerable to invasive species and has become a serious problem inArgentina. Most species are from Eurasia, and recorded dates of introductions aremainly from the second and first half of the 19th and 20th centuries. Feral populations of18 species of exotic mammals occur in Argentina Examples of invasive mammals, theirattributes and invaded habitats are synthesized.. In Archipelago of Tierra del Fuego,colonization by beaver (Castor canadensis) has had a major ecological impact. Mostfueguian watercourses are also inhabited by muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus). Americanmink (Mustela vison) was introduced for fur farming and established successfully fromNeuquén to Tierra del Fuego while rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were released intoseveral regions of Chile from where they spread and invaded the southwestern region ofArgentina. European hare (Lepus europaeus) was introduced in the central region of thecountry and current distribution cover practically all of Argentina. No quantitative informationexists on the effects of European hare on vegetation, except in forestry plantations Red deer(Cervus elaphus), one of the most damaging and complicated invasive mammals, werebrought to La Pampa and shortly after to the Andean cordillera. Wild boar (Sus scrofa)was introduced in La Pampa and Neuquén and current distribution includes severalNational parks and has been reported as having a detrimental impact on livestock, onagricultural activities. The Asiatic Red-Bellied squirrel (Callosciurus erythraeus) wasintroduced as a pet in 1970 and <5 animals originated a wild population. Squirrelscause economic damage in agricultural and urban areas, and may threaten native birdsand disperse exotic vegetation. Management actions could be undertaken to eradicateisolated and small foci of invasions while control and mitigation can reduce damage inlarge populations. Guidelines for the best management options are needed.