What can we learn from xenarthrans about the conservation of mammals?

SUPERINA, M.; ABBA, A.M.

Oklahoma

Congreso; 94th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Mammalogists; 2014

American Society of Mammalogists

Due to their unusual appearance and a wealth of extraordinary characteristics, the Xenarthra have awoken interest and curiosity since their discovery. They constitute one of the four basal clades of placental mammals, and their entire evolutionary history, which took place exclusively in the Americas, is concentrated in 31 extant species. This in itself would be an argument to study them and ensure their long-term survival. Nevertheless, many Xenarthra remain poorly known, which makes it difficult to realistically assess their conservation status and develop effective conservation strategies. A higher proportion of armadillos are listed as Data Deficient or Near Threatened than other South American terrestrial mammals, while proportionally more sloths and anteaters are listed as Vulnerable or Critically Endangered. Hunting seems to be a more significant threat for Xenarthra than for other South American terrestrial mammals; land use change and roadkills are also taking a heavy toll on them. Two decades ago, existing conservation efforts for Xenarthra and the number of researchers dedicated to studying them were rather limited. However, the present situation paints a more promising future for these unusual mammals. In this talk we will revise the conservation status and threats of Xenarthra and compare them with other South American taxa, discuss experiences made over the past 10 years, and provide suggestions that may help other mammalogists develop conservation strategies for their species.