Lowland Streaked Tenrec

Scientific name: Hemicentetes semispinosus

Type: Mammal Main biome: Tropical Jungle Difficulty: Media

Small insectivorous mammal from Madagascar with spines and striking stripes on its body.

Basic information

🏡Home: humid forests, plantations and areas with leaf litter-rich soils in Madagascar.
🍏Food: insects, earthworms and other soil invertebrates.
👫Sexual dimorphism: slight; males and females similar externally.
🐾Predators: carnivores, nocturnal raptors and snakes; defends by raising spines.

What this species is like in its natural environment.

The lowland streaked tenrec is a small forest floor mammal, highly dependent on leaf litter cover and humidity.

Prefers areas with soft soils and abundant organic matter for digging and finding prey.

Nocturnal, spending day in burrows or shelters, emerging at night to forage in leaf litter.

Combines defensive spines with developed sense of smell to track invertebrates underground.

Although some populations are considered relatively common, forest loss remains a concern.

Striking details about this species.

Aspects to consider in captivity.

Facilities and spaceMedium

In captivity needs terrestrial terrariums with deep substrate and dark shelters.

Light, temperature and environmentMedium

Requires varied invertebrate diet or specific insectivore feeds.

Handling and stressMedium

Handling should be gentle to avoid injuries to both animal and handler.

Information for professional facilities.

⚠️ Capture and trade of mammals like this species are regulated in many countries.

Occasionally kept in specialized collections as educational species about Madagascar.

Feeding should alternate different invertebrates and preparations, avoiding monotonous diets.

Welfare improves greatly with abundant hiding spots and stable routine.

This information is for educational purposes.