Pangolins

Pangolins

Pangolins are unique mammals belonging to the order Pholidota, known for their distinctive protective keratin scales covering their skin. These scales are a defining characteristic, making pangolins the only mammals wholly covered in such a manner. They are often referred to as "scaly anteaters" due to their diet and appearance.

Taxonomy and Species

Pangolins are classified under the family Manidae, which comprises eight extant species. These species are divided between two genera: *Manis* in Asia and *Phataginus* and *Smutsia* in Africa.

Asian Pangolins

• Indian Pangolin (*Manis crassicaudata*)
• Chinese Pangolin (*Manis pentadactyla*)
• Sunda Pangolin (*Manis javanica*)
• Philippine Pangolin (*Manis culionensis*)

African Pangolins

• Cape Pangolin (*Smutsia temminckii*)
• Giant Pangolin (*Smutsia gigantea*)
• Tree Pangolin (*Phataginus tricuspis*)
• Long-tailed Pangolin (*Phataginus tetradactyla*)

Physical Characteristics

Pangolins are characterized by their elongated bodies, small heads, and long tails. Their scales, made of keratin, provide protection against predators. When threatened, pangolins can roll into a tight ball, using their scales as armor.

Pangolins have no teeth; instead, they have a long, sticky tongue that can extend to capture ants and termites, their primary food source. Their strong claws are adapted for digging into ant hills and termite mounds.

Behavior and Ecology

Pangolins are primarily nocturnal and solitary animals. They are known for their specialized diet, feeding almost exclusively on ants and termites. This diet is facilitated by their keen sense of smell, which they use to locate insect nests.

Pangolins play a crucial role in their ecosystems by controlling insect populations. They are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands.

Conservation Status

All eight species of pangolins are threatened by illegal wildlife trade and habitat loss. They are one of the most trafficked mammals in the world, primarily due to demand for their scales and meat.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect pangolins, including international trade bans under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Cultural Significance

Pangolins have cultural significance in various regions, often associated with traditional medicine and folklore. However, this cultural value has also contributed to their exploitation.

Also see

• Keratin
• Endangered Species
• Wildlife Conservation
• Illegal Wildlife Trade