Kingdom Animalia Order Cingulata Genus Dasypus Higher classification Dasypus | Phylum Chordata Family Dasypodidae Scientific name Dasypus yepesi Rank Species | |
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Similar Hairy long‑nosed armadillo, Llanos long‑nosed armadillo, Greater long‑nosed armadillo, Dasypus, Seven‑banded armadillo | ||
Yepes's mulita or Yunga's Lesser Long-Nosed Armadillo (Dasypus yepesi) is a species of armadillo in the family Dasypodidae. It is endemic to Argentina and Bolivia. Its natural habitat is subtropical dry forests. The species is named after Argentinean zoologist Jose Yepes and includes specimens previously assigned as Dasypus mazzai, D. hybridus, D. septemcinctus, and D. novemcinctus.
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Geographic Range
Yepes's mulita is found in the Jujuy and Salta provinces of Argentina, however its range my extend to parts of Bolivia and Paraguay. Due to the lack of data on the species, no more than nine populations are known. It is mostly found in altitudes of 450-1800m (1476 ft - 5905 ft). Its habitat ranges from deserts to humid forests.
Use and trade
The species is known to be hunted locally for food.
Conservation
Because so little is known about Yepes's mulita, it is listed as "Data Deficient" by the IUCN. There is ongoing deforestation in its range and its habitat is considered fragmented, which adds to the conservation concerns. The species has been designated for protection in Parque Nacional Calilegua and Parque Nacional El Rey in northern Argentina.