Distribution, habitat and adaptability of the genusTapirus

Abstract

In this manuscript, as a starting point, the ancient and current distribution of the genus Tapirus are summarized, from its origins, apparently in Europe, to current ranges. Subsequently, original and current tapir habitats are described, as well as changes in ancient habitats. As the manuscript goes on, we examine the ways in which tapir species interact with their habitats and the main aspects of habitat use, spatial ecology and adaptability. Having reviewed the historic and current distribution of tapirs, as well as their use and selection of habitats, we introduce the concept of adaptability, considering that some of the tapir physiological characteristics and behavioral strategies can reduce the negative impact of habitat alteration and climate change. Finally, we provide recommendations for future research priorities. The conservation community is still missing important pieces of information for the effective conservation of tapirs and their remaining habitats in Central and South America and Southeast Asia. Reconstructing how tapir species reached their current distribution ranges, interpreting how they interact with their habitats and gathering information regarding the strategies they use to cope with habitat changes will increase our understanding about these animals and contribute to the development of conservation strategies.

Density, Abundance and Activity Patterns of the Endangered Tapirus Bairdii in One of its Last Strongholds in Southern Mexico

“…Due to its level of evolutionary distinctiveness and level of threat T. bairdii was recently ranked 34 th in urgency for conservation among more than 4,000 mammalian species assessed by experts from the Institute of Zoology in London [20]. Despite its level of threat and its ecological and evolutionary relevance, important gaps exist in knowledge of the basic ecology of this species [21].…”

Tapiridae

“…7,35 Vulvar swelling, white and stringy mucous discharge, urine dribbling, and increased vocalization, as well as low progesterone levels may signify the onset of estrus. 47,55 Female tapirs may resume estrus at an average of 16 (9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20)(21)(22)(23)(24)(25)(26)(27) days after parturition; therefore, the inter-birth interval may be as short as 14 months. Injuries during breeding do occur.…”

Feeding Ecology of Five Neotropical Ungulates: A Critical Review

“…The predominantly herbivorous foraging habit of the lowland tapir, which is associated with a certain degree of selectivity (Salas & Fuller 1996) and with foraging in patches of secondary vegetation (Naranjo 1995, Salas & Fuller 1996, Foerster & Vaughan 2002, Tobler 2002, Oliveira-Santos et al 2010, Chalukian et al 2013, García et al 2012, plays an important role in the dynamics of forest regeneration because this species' foraging habit favors certain plant species over others. In terms of seed dispersal through frugivory, tapirs ingest seeds and defecate them whole (Bodmer 1991b, Barcelos et al 2013.…”