Why Are Marine Otters Endangered

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Home page carnivora - means "flesh-eating (animals)" Carni = flesh Vore = devour/to eat Common name-Mustelids Mustelids characteristics Mustelidae is the largest family within Carnivora and consists of 56 species Most Mustelids have a very good sense of smell Most Mustelids are carnivorous, but some species will eat plant material. Mustelids most impact their ecosystems through their effects on prey populations. Many different mustelid species keep rodent and bird populations from getting too big. The earliest mustelid fossil that was found in the Oligocene(33.5-23.8 mya). Marine Otter Conservation Status Marine otters are endangered because they are hunted for their pelts. Location South America Length 20 - 31 inches Tail Length 12 - 14 inches Weight 6.6 - 11 lbs Life Expectancy 10-12 Yrs Main Characteristics Marine Otters live out near the coast. They spend most of their time laying on their backs in the water eating fish and other shellfish. They have thick fur coats that keep them warm in the cold pacific waters. Habitat …show more content…

Marine Otters are usually found in rocky marine habitats where there is a high amount of kelp canopy. These rocky marine habitats usually consist of water depths that are about 20 m. A kelp canopy is an important habitat component for the Marine Otter because it is used for resting and foraging. Sometimes sea otters are found further offshore in water depths of between 40 and 60 meters. These deeper areas usually have an abundance of food, which is why the otters will go out of their way to get their. The main predators of Marine Otters are sharks and killer

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