why are solenodons endangered? course hero

How has human activity affected the solenodon?

Human development on both Cuba and Hispaniola has resulted in fragmentation and habitat loss, further contributing to the reduction of the solenodon's range and numbers.

Why are Hispaniolan solenodons extinct?

The Hispaniolan solenodon was also once thought to be extinct, more due to its secretive and elusive behavior than to low population numbers . Recent studies have proven that the species is widely distributed through the island of Hispaniola, but it does not tolerate habitat degradation. A 1981 study of the Hispaniolan solenodon in Haiti found that the species was “functionally extinct”, with the exception of a small population in the area of Massif de la Hotte. A follow-up study, in 2007, noted that the solenodon was still thriving in the area, even though the region has had an increase in human population density in recent years.

What is the difference between a Cuban solenodon and a Cuban solenodon?

The Cuban solenodon is generally smaller than its Hispaniolan counterpart. It is also a rusty brown with black on its throat and back.

What is a solenodon?

Solenodons ( / soʊˈlɛnədɒnz /, meaning "slotted-tooth") are venomous, nocturnal, burrowing, insectivorous mammals belonging to the family Solenodontidae / soʊˌlɛnəˈdɒntɪdiː /. The two living solenodon species are the Cuban solenodon ( Atopogale cubana ), and the Hispaniolan solenodon ( Solenodon paradoxus ). Threats to both species include habitat destruction and predation by non-native cats, dogs, and mongooses, introduced by humans to the solenodons' home islands to control snakes and rodents.

How does a solenodon use echolocation?

Solenodons generate clicking noises similar to those of shews; the sound waves bounce off objects in their vicinity. This form of echolocation helps a solenodon navigate as well as find food. This well developed auditory ability combined with its above average sense of smell helps the solenodon survive despite its extremely small eyes and poor vision.

How does a solenodon move its head forward?

After coming across the prey, the solenodon will bring the forelimbs up to either side of the prey and then move the head forward, opening the jaw and properly catching its prey. While sniffing for food, the solenodon can get through physical barriers with the help of its sharp claws.

What are the traits of a solenodon?

Solenodons have a few unusual traits, one of them being the position of the two teats on the female, almost on the buttocks of the animal , and another being the venomous saliva that flows from modified salivary glands in the mandible through grooves on the second lower incisors ("solenodon" derives from the Greek "grooved tooth"). Solenodons are among a handful of venomous mammals. Fossil records show that some other now-extinct mammal groups also had the dental venom delivery system, indicating that the solenodon's most distinct characteristic may have been a more general ancient mammalian characteristic that has been lost in most modern mammals and is only retained in a couple of very ancient lineages. The solenodon has often been called a "living fossil" because it has endured virtually unchanged for the past 76 million years.