AI overview
The oriental small-clawed otter is a small mammal species native to Asia that has notably smaller claws than other otter species, which helps it catch small prey like crustaceans and insects. These otters are important members of their ecosystems and are of conservation interest as their populations face threats from habitat loss and water pollution.
AI-generated from the Wikipedia summary — may contain errors.
Species
VulnerableAsian small-clawed otter
Species
- PhylumChordata
- ClassMammalia
- OrderCarnivora
- FamilyMustelidae
Habitatmarine, freshwater
Observations932
Maximum longevity: 23 years (captivity) Observations: One wild born female was about 23 years old when she died in captivity (Richard Weigl 2005).
via IUCN
Article
The Asian small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus), also called oriental small-clawed otter and small-clawed otter, is an otter species native to South and Southeast Asia. It has short claws that do not extend beyond the pads of its webbed digits. With a total body length of 730 to 960 mm (28.6 to 37.6 in), and a maximum weight of 3.5 kg (7.7 lb), it is the smallest otter species.
The Asian small-clawed otter lives in riverine habitats, freshwater wetlands and mangrove swamps. It feeds on molluscs, crabs and other small aquatic animals. It lives in pairs, but also has been observed in family groups with up to 12 individuals. It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, and is threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and in some areas also by hunting.