Japanese Otter
The Japanese Otter (Lutra nippon) is an otter native to Japan, and its classification has come under some scrutiny. While some groups classify the Japanese Otter as Lutra nippon as mentioned, the IUCN actually classifies it as part of Lutra lutra, and is rated as ‘Near Threatened’ by the IUCN. Groups that classify it as Lutra nippon believe the Japanese Otter is nearing extinction.
They used to be widespread throughout the country, but are closing in on endangerment due to a dwindling food supply and destruction of their natural habitat. The Japanese Otter is now thought to be living only on the Japanese island of Shikoku.
Japanese Otter Classification
| - Kingdom: Animalia |
| - Phylum: Chordata |
| - Class: Mammalia |
| - Order: Carnivora |
| - Suborder: Caniformia |
| - Family: Mustelidae |
| - Subfamily: Lutrinae |
| - Genus: Lutra |
| - Species: Lutra nippon |