Use of coconuts (Cocos nucifera: Arecaceae) as nutrient source by Northern Tamandua (Tamandua mexicana: Myrmecophagidae)

Authors

  • José Manuel Mora Carrera de Gestión Ecoturística (GEC), Sede Central, Universidad Técnica Nacional (UTN), Costa Rica. Department of Biology and Museum of Vertebrate Biology, Portland State University, Portland, Oregon 97207, USA.
  • Dionisio Paniagua Surcos Tours, Puerto Jiménez, Puntarenas, Costa Rica.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31687/SaremNMS23.10.5

Keywords:

anteaters, coconut palm tree, Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica, fruits

Abstract

Northern Tamandua relies on a diet primarily composed of eusocial insects. We have observed this species interacting with coconuts on the ground at Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica. The tamandua inserts its snout into the coconuts and apparently drinks their contents. Occasionally we have observed the tamandua holding the coconut, using its largest claws to open it from the side and consuming from the inside. However, besides potential drinking, it was not possible to determine precisely what else it ate, if anything. Coconut water serves as a source of essential elements, including iron and selenium, from which tamanduas may benefit.

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Video frames showing a Northern tamandua (Tamandua mexicana) opening a coconut by the side using its largest claws to manipulate the fruit. Sirena sector, Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica. Video by Dionisio Paniagua.

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Published

11/18/2023

How to Cite

Mora, J. M., & Paniagua, D. . (2023). Use of coconuts (Cocos nucifera: Arecaceae) as nutrient source by Northern Tamandua (Tamandua mexicana: Myrmecophagidae). Notas Sobre Mamíferos Sudamericanos, 5(1). https://doi.org/10.31687/SaremNMS23.10.5

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 1 (2023): Volume 5 – Year 2023

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Notes

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Copyright (c) 2023 José Manuel Mora, Dionisio Paniagua

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