A Mini-Review on Distribution, Threats, and Conservation Strategies for Otters: Distribution, Threats, and Conservation Strategies for Otters

Muhammad Mudassir Hussain; Roheela Yasmeen

doi:10.54393/mjz.v6i4.186

Authors

Muhammad Mudassir Hussain Department of Biology, Lahore Garrison University, Lahore, Pakistan
Roheela Yasmeen Department of Biology, Lahore Garrison University, Lahore, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54393/mjz.v6i4.186

Keywords:

Otters, Conservation, Illegal Trade, Wildlife Protection

Abstract

There are five species of otter found in Asia, and they can be found in freshwater as well as along the coastal regions of the sea. These are semi-aquatic mammals that live in a variety of freshwater and coastal marine environments on the continent. They are morphologically modified to live in water, their bodies are streamlined, their heads are long with a beam pattern, they have sensitive vibrissae, and round ears. The interesting aspect of the Eurasian otter is that it has a long and hairy tail that ends conically to a sharp end. Also being apex predators, otters are very vital in their ecosystem. Their precious fur, organs, and exotic pets are subjected to illegal international trade that is a major threat to the otter population all over the world, as well as habitat loss and pollution. As much as otters groom themselves to ensure waterproofing and insulation, they are unable to regenerate fur. Many organizations are actively working in Pakistan and elsewhere in the world to conserve the lives of otters through conservation programs. The purpose of this review is to gather all the information about the otters, their nutritional requirements, habitat, and conservation.

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