Research trends and geographical distribution of mammalian carnivores in Portugal (SW Europe).

摘要: Information regarding species’ status at a regional scale is instrumental for effective conservation planning. Some regions of southwestern Europe, such as Portugal, albeit included in the Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot, lack detailed assessment distribution patterns several taxonomic groups, carnivores. Moreover, information scattered, often unreliable and biased towards some species or regions. This study aimed reviewing existing knowledge on mammalian terrestrial carnivores to analyse research trends, update checklist assess their historical current patterns. We conducted comprehensive review 755 scientific studies publication metrics compiled 20,189 presence records all occurring Portugal since times evaluate Carnivore began 18th century, with recent boost mid-1990s, has been certain topics regionally threatened species. There are 15 extant nine across country, six showing more limited range, well one additional currently locally extinct (Ursus arctos). Over last decades, ranges seven apparently remained stable, two expanded, contracted, three showed unclear trends. The new invasive carnivore, raccoon (Procyon lotor), also documented here. illustrates relevance analysis non-systematic data historic national level, identify gaps priorities.