The biology of aardvark (Tubulidentata‐Orycteropodidae)

Abstract The aardvark is a large nocturnal mammal with an anatomy highly specialized to cope with a myrmecophagous diet and a fossorial habit. Today it is present throughout Africa south of the Sahara, but the actual distribution is very patchy and in some areas it has been largely exterminated by man. For many years the species was classified in the Edentata, along with other ‘anteaters’ such as Myrmecophaga and the pangolins. It is now recognized as comprising an order to itself, the Tubulidentata; so named because of the unique structure of the teeth. Aardvark are generally believed to have evolved from the protoungulates (Condylarthra), although earlier origins for the group have been suggested. Little is known of the ecology of this animal, no detailed study having been made. Burrows, often quite extensive, are dug and play an important role in the life of aardvark. They are the diurnal resting sites, refuges from nocturnal predators and the places where young are born. Termites, particularly Macrotermes , and ants (Formicidae) constitute almost the whole diet, being obtained by frequent digging at night. A zig‐zag foraging pattern is used with no particular attention being paid to termite mounds. The senses of hearing and smell both appear to be important in food location. The extent of man's effects on the animal, through hunting and habitat alteration, is not known. It is concluded that a detailed ecological study is required to assess the need for conservation measures and generally gauge the status of the species.