The pink fairy armadillo is in the family Chlamyphoridae.
This unique and elusive mammal, known for its distinctive pink shell and small size, belongs to a family of armadillos that also includes the larger pichiciegos. Its taxonomic classification highlights its specific place within the animal kingdom.
Understanding the Pink Fairy Armadillo's Classification
The classification of the pink fairy armadillo, Chlamyphorus truncatus, helps scientists understand its evolutionary relationships and biological characteristics. Here's a detailed breakdown of its taxonomic hierarchy:
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Chlamyphoridae |
| Subfamily | Chlamyphorinae |
| Genus | Chlamyphorus Harlan, 1825 |
| Species | C. truncatus |
Key Characteristics of the Pink Fairy Armadillo
- Size: It is the smallest armadillo species, typically measuring between 90 and 115 millimeters (3.5 to 4.5 inches) in length, excluding the tail.
- Appearance: Its most striking feature is its dorsal shell, which is light pink or rose-colored, consisting of approximately 24 bands. This shell is softer and more flexible than that of other armadillos.
- Habitat: Native to central Argentina, it prefers dry grasslands and sandy plains.
- Behavior: Primarily nocturnal and solitary, it is an excellent burrower, spending most of its life underground. Its specialized claws are adapted for digging through compact soil.
The Chlamyphoridae Family
The family Chlamyphoridae includes armadillos that are generally characterized by their unique armoring and adaptations for fossorial (burrowing) lifestyles. While the pink fairy armadillo is the most well-known member of the subfamily Chlamyphorinae, the broader Chlamyphoridae family also encompasses other genera of armadillos, reflecting a diverse group within the order Cingulata.
