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Thin Mouse Shrew

Thin Mouse Shrew

South Africa, Mozambique
Status
Endangered

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Forest, Freshwater

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
tender leaves, grasses, twigs, and forest vegetation

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
diurnal and crepuscular

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

COMMENTS: Provisionally regarded as a distinct species by Wolhuter (in Smithers, 1983: 3) because of sympatry with cafer and a different karyotype. Meester et al. (1986) included tenuis in cafer.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Thin Mouse Shrew is officially designated as Endangered. 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, freshwater, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of tender leaves, grasses, twigs, and forest vegetation. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a diurnal and crepuscular activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 15 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 Thin Mouse Shrew.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeSouth Africa, Mozambique
Habitat RangeForest, Freshwater
Lifespan15 Yrs
StatusEndangered
ScientificMyosorex tenuis
Registry Info
Lifespan15 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilySoricidae