African clawless otter
A species of Clawless otters, Also known as Groot otter, Cameroon clawless otter Scientific name : Aonyx capensis Genus : Clawless otters
African clawless otter, A species of Clawless otters
Also known as:
Groot otter, Cameroon clawless otter
Scientific name: Aonyx capensis
Genus: Clawless otters
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Irene Forbes , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
African clawless otters have thick, smooth fur with almost silky underbellies. Chestnut in color, they are characterized by white facial markings that extend downward towards their throat and chest areas. Paws are partially webbed with five fingers, and no opposable thumbs. All lack claws except for digits 2, 3, and 4 of the hind feet. Their large skulls are broad and flat, with relatively small orbits and short rostra. Molars are large and flat, used for crushing of prey. Male otters are slightly larger than females on average. Adults are 113–163 cm (45–64 in) in length, including their tails that comprised about a third of their length. Weights can range from 10–36 kg (22-80 lbs), with most otters averaging between 12 and 21 kg (26-46 lbs). Despite being closely related to the oriental small-clawed otter, the African clawless otter is often twice as massive as that relatively diminutive mustelid. 
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
African clawless otter flourishes on a diet primarily composed of aquatic creatures, including crustaceans and mollusks. It also demonstrates a partial preference for insects, amphibians, and certain types of aquatic vegetation.
Appearance
African clawless otter is a compact, medium-sized mammal, boasting a velvety, dark brown fur. It exhibits webbed feet equipped with sharp claws, and an elongated, snout-like nose. Its tail is thick and acts as a fat storage organ. There are little to no significant visual differences between genders or age groups in this animal.
Behavior
African clawless otter is primarily nocturnal, exerting foraging efforts during nightfall. It is a solitary and territorial species, using scent markings to demarcate its abode. Unique among mustelids, african clawless otter display exceptional semi-aquatic adaptations for survival, displaying adept swimming and diving skills to catch prey.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Carnivores Family
Mustelids Genus
Clawless otters Species
African clawless otter 
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