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Brazilian agouti

Brazilian agouti

Dominica, Grenada, United States of America, Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
Status
Least Concern

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Forest, Wetland, Freshwater

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
seeds, herbaceous plants, wild berries, and soft bark

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
crepuscular

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Activity patterns. As is characteristic of all species of Dasyprocta, Common Red-rumped Agoutis are primarily diurnal but with bimodal activity patterns concentrated in early morning and late evening when a second phase of foraging occurs. They are most active in early morning and late afternoon. They are sometimes active on bright moonlit nights. Single individuals use diurnal and nocturnal resting places, with the number of these places varying by individual, not by sex or age.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Brazilian agouti is officially designated as Least Concern. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to forest, wetland, freshwater, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of seeds, herbaceous plants, wild berries, and soft bark. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a crepuscular activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 3 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of Brazilian agouti.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeDominica, Grenada, United States of America, Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
Habitat RangeForest, Wetland, Freshwater
Lifespan3 Yrs
StatusLeast Concern
ScientificDasyprocta leporina
Registry Info
Lifespan3 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilyDasyproctidae