Conservation status and natural history of Ctenomys, tuco-tucos in Bolivia

The genus Ctenomys consists of about 70 species and in addition to the Geomyidae Nearctic, Neotropical tuco-tucos represent a well-documented case diversification subterranean biotype. Here we will: i) Provide an updated summary natural history 12 extant from Bolivia; ii) Update information on distributions each species; iii) Using ecological niche modeling, evaluate recent projected habitat transformation or degradation within known range provide preliminary assessment preservation conservation status ctenomyids Bolivia. We follow Gardner et al. (2014) combine summaries with both published new data compile complete list Occurrence for Bolivia surrounding areas were extracted database Arctos GBIF. All individual specimen-based locality records checked georeferenced by referring original museum collection records. created distribution models enough using climate soil data, while rest estimated ranges based occurrence localities. Finally, quantified amount large-scale conversion occurring range, as well potential effect climatic change distribution. present regarding biology tuco-tuco (Ctenomys) occur Bolivia, including unpublished such association, interactions activity patterns gathered authors through extensive field work. Besides this, current species, assessed five species. found that habitats C. boliviensis steinbachi have experienced significant land-cover conversions years. also show opimus, above mentioned are expected undergo contractions resulting 2070. Our review shows there is dearth history, taxonomy many Bolivian Nonetheless, presented here can be tool directing focusing studies these This great importance if take into account most subject one several conservation/preservation threats. These include: Habitat destruction via land use changes conjunction geographic small areal extent which cases not adequately covered protected areas.