Abstract

MUSCHETTO, Emiliano; CUETO, Gerardo R.  and  SUAREZ, Olga V.. New data on the natural history and morphometrics of Lutreolina crassicaudata (Didelphimorphia) from central-eastern Argentina. Mastozool. neotrop. [online]. 2011, vol.18, n.1, pp.73-79. ISSN 0327-9383.

We provide new data on the natural history and morphometrics of one of the least studied didelphid marsupial species, Lutreolina crassicaudata. Field work was conducted in central-eastern Argentina during two consecutive years. Juveniles and sub-adults were captured during summer and autumn. Reproduction showed seasonality with a continuous breeding period from spring to summer (September to February). The analysis of 17 scats belonging to 17 individuals showed mainly seeds and vegetal remains, as well as amphibians, birds and invertebrates. Sexual dimorphism in juveniles and sub-adults was registered for the first time, being males larger and heavier than females.

Keywords : Diet; Opossum; Reproduction; Seasonal fluctuation; Sexual dimorphism.

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