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Southwestern water vole, Southern water vole

Southwestern water vole, Southern water vole

Arvicola sapidus

A semi-aquatic rodent endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, characterized by its robust body and adaptations to riparian ecosystems.

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Southwestern water vole, Southern water vole
Southwestern water vole, Southern water vole
Southwestern water vole, Southern water vole
Southwestern water vole, Southern water vole
Southwestern water vole, Southern water vole
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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Freshwater environments including rivers, streams, marshes, and wetlands across Portugal and Spain, typically in regions with dense vegetation and slow-moving water bodies

Ecological Role

Critical ecosystem engineer in riparian zones, contributing to aquatic ecosystem dynamics through burrowing, seed dispersal, and serving as prey for predators

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Dense, water-resistant fur typically dark brown to greyish-brown, providing thermal insulation and camouflage
  • LIMBS WINGS Short, muscular limbs with partially webbed hind feet, excellent swimming capabilities
  • HEAD SENSORY Rounded head, small ears, large incisors for gnawing vegetation, keen hearing and touch sensitivities
  • BODY STRUCTURE Compact, robust body with adult length ranging 14-22 cm, weight between 120-300 g, stout build adapted for semi-aquatic lifestyle
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Adrian Pingstone
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Related Species in Cricetidae