Molecular and camera trap data confirm the occurrence of Dasypus septemcinctus (Linnaeus, 1758) in Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil

Abstract

Understanding the distribution range of a species is crucial for conservation efforts. Yet, precise confirmation of their presence throughout predicted areas can be a challenge. Molecular tools, associated with traditional survey methods, can help in species identification, settling the misidentification of specimens. This study uses a combination of a molecular approach with morphological features to confirm records of the seven-banded armadillo (Dasypus septemcinctus) in Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Brazil, at the southern edge of its known range. Despite extensive camera trapping and roadkill monitoring efforts, we obtained only two records of D. septemcinctus, both in the northeast region of MS. Molecular analysis confirmed the morphological identification, eliminating any doubt about the identification of the specimen. The confirmation of D. septemcinctus occurrence in the state of MS, not only expands our knowledge of this widely distributed but poorly studied species, but also highlights the importance of a local park (Parque Natural Municipal do Pombo) for Xenarthra conservation.