Abstract

GRAJALES-GARCIA, Daniela et al. Feeding habits of the neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis annectens) (Carnivora: Mustelidae) in the coastal zone of Tuxpan, Veracruz. Rev. Mex. Biodiv. [online]. 2019, vol.90, e902502.  Epub Mar 04, 2019. ISSN 2007-8706.  https://doi.org/10.22201/ib.20078706e.2019.90.2502.

The neotropical otter is a species of wide distribution in México. This species is classified as threatened in Mexico by NOM-059-Semarnat-2010; there are few studies on them. The goal of this study was to determine the neotropical otter feeding habits, its distribution and relative abundance in the Ramsar site 1602 Mangroves and Wetlands of Tuxpan. Spraints were collected to analyze their diet composition. Defecation rate, and kilometers monitored were used to determine the relative abundance of otters. Finally, latrines were georeferenced to recognize patterns of distribution of the otters at the study site. A total of 67 spraints were collected in which the following prey groups were identified: crustaceans (55%), fish (22%), mollusks (8%), birds (6%), insects (4%), amphibians (1%), and mammals (1%). Diet was found somewhat different to other diets reported from other areas of Mexico. Abundance and distribution were influenced by the degree of habitat conservation and by distance to human settlements.

Keywords : Neotropical otter; Lontra longicaudis annectens; Mangrove forest; Feeding habits; Ramsar sites 1602; Gulf of México.