Environmental Components of the Marine Otter Habitat of Peru

The habitat of the marine otter Lontra felina in Peru extends along the coastline from 9°S to 18°S within the Humboldt Current System. Oceanographic characteristics and coastal upwelling processes are responsible for cold temperatures in the subtropical coastal region of South America, creating a desert coastline with extensive sandy beaches interrupted by cliffs and rocky edges. These environmental processes influence the biological diversity of the Peruvian Sea, with recurrent El Niño events affecting biodiversity. Biologically, intertidal communities on rocky shores provide a rich source of food for L. felina. The vast communities of macroalgae on rocky coastlines play an important role in food webs and as substrates for larval settlement of benthic organisms. In addition, they serve as refuge for benthic and pelagic species. Mollusks and crustaceans have high species richness values in coastal areas, and other invertebrates (polychaete annelids) are important groups in ecosystems and marine communities because of the diversity of their structures and functions. Marine vertebrate fauna encompasses a great diversity of fish, sea turtles, and up to 30 mammals. Hundred species of seabirds, many of which are coastal, are noticeable for their high population densities. The Peruvian Sea faces threats such as climate change, pollution, and illegal fishing practices. In recent years, progress has been made in marine conservation and its resources in Peru. Currently, a holistic perspective involves conserving species and their marine environments with the creation of new protected marine natural areas.