Toothless No More: Perspectives and challenges for the conservation of Xenarthra

SUPERINA, M.

Nürnberg

Simposio; Internationales Symposium Forschung und Artenschutz in Südamerika; 2016

Tiergarten Nürnberg

Armadillos, sloths, and anteaters conform the superorder Xenarthra. These fascinating mammals are exclusive to the Americas, and are one of the four major clades of placental mammals. There are many misconceptions about these animals, once known as Edentata, or ?Toothless?. A giant armadillo, for example, has over one hundred teeth. There is abundant information about them, but how this information is generated and disseminated has become a key point in their conservation.   The Xenarthra are all under considerable pressure. For example, habitat degradation and fragmentation is thought to affect at least 21 of the 31 known species of xenarthrans, and virtually all armadillo species are subjected to hunting. While the populations of many xenarthrans are declining, a considerable amount of information is being generated day by day, from diverse sources, and in careful coordination.My main goal, and passion, is the research and conservation of armadillos in South America. Since 2001, in Mendoza Province of Argentina, we have used different approaches to study and save the pichi (Zaedyus pichiy) and other armadillos such as the pink fairy armadillo (Chlamyphorus truncatus) from extinction. These strategies were extended to the Program for the Conservation and Management of the Armadillos of the Eastern Floodplains of Colombia in 2012. This other program has become an exemplary initiative involving field research on elusive species such as the giant armadillo, ex situ conservation, and an education and awareness program that has already reached over 20,000 persons. We hope to expand similar programs to other parts of the continent.As Chair of the IUCN/SSC Anteater, Sloth and Armadillo Specialist Group, my work also involves the production, dissemination, and advancement of the science that allows for the conservation of all Xenarthra. Training courses and talks have proven to be key to raise interest in xenarthrans and motivate students and young professionals to work with these amazing creatures. Our journal Edentata ? an ironic and outdated name, but one the publication is known for ? is gaining relevance as a channel to publish information that contributes to the conservation of xenarthrans. The future for xenarthrans is becoming brighter, as more and more enthusiastic researchers work together to save these incredible animals from extinction.