PRELIMS BITS – SPECIES
Habitat – Thrives in wetlands, swamps, mangroves, marshes, oxbow lakes, reed beds, and tidal creeks.
Characteristics
- Expert Swimmer: Known for diving to catch fish, its primary prey.
- Diet: Feeds on fish, frogs, crustaceans, and small mammals.
- Behavior: Nocturnal predator, active during the night.
- Physical Features:
- Muscular build with a short tail having 6-7 dark bands.
- Breeds year-round.
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
Ecological Role
- Indicator Species: Reflects the health of wetland ecosystems.
- Ecosystem Balance: Helps maintain aquatic biodiversity.