Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Afrosoricida
- Family
- Tenrecidae
- Genus
- Micropotamogale
Habitat
This species inhabits fast-flowing rivers, streams, and wetlands in the montane forests of the Ruwenzori Mountains in Central Africa, typically at elevations between 1,000 and 2,500 meters. It prefers areas with rocky substrates and dense vegetation for cover and hunting.
Diet
The Ruwenzori otter shrew primarily eats aquatic insects, crustaceans, small fish, and amphibians, which it captures by diving and probing in riverbeds. It is mainly nocturnal, foraging at night to minimize competition and predation risks.
Behavior
The Ruwenzori otter shrew is solitary and territorial, marking its riverbank territories with scent to deter others. It is primarily nocturnal, spending days in burrows near water and actively hunting at night with excellent swimming abilities. This species is agile in water but cautious on land, avoiding open areas.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies the Ruwenzori otter shrew as Vulnerable due to habitat loss from deforestation and human activities, with populations continuing to decline.