A medium-sized, pig-like mammalian species native to the Americas, ranging from the southern United States to northern Argentina, inhabiting diverse ecosystems from tropical forests to semi-arid regions.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Found in tropical and subtropical forests, scrublands, grasslands, and desert margins across Central and South America, adaptable to varied environmental conditions
Ecological Role
Key seed disperser, prey species for large predators, contributes to ecosystem dynamics through foraging and herd movements, significant role in forest and grassland food webs
Morphology
SKIN COATCoarse, grizzled gray to black hair covering body, thick dermis providing thermal regulation
LIMBS WINGSShort, sturdy legs with hooves, adapted for terrestrial movement and quick escape from predators
HEAD SENSORYDistinctive white collar around neck, pointed snout, small eyes, excellent sense of smell for navigation and predator detection
BODY STRUCTUREStocky, compact body with average weight of 20-40 kg, shoulder height approximately 0.5-0.7 m, body length 0.9-1.2 m
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Giles Laurent
