The Role of Giant Armadillos (<i>Priodontes maximus</i>) as Physical Ecosystem Engineers

Abstract

Abstract Through their excavations, giant armadillos ( Priodontes maximus ) alter their physical surroundings and create new habitats, which influence resources for at least 24 other species of vertebrates in the Brazilian Pantanal. The role of this poorly known species as an ecosystem engineer may be of high value to the community of vertebrates.