Conservation of a threatened semi-aquatic mammal: Insights from a systematic review on the Pyrenean Desman (Galemys pyrenaicus)

This systematic review provides an overview of the existing knowledge to date on the Pyrenean desman ( Galemys pyrenaicus ), an endangered semi-aquatic mammal from the north of the Iberian Peninsula. Following the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, 120 relevant publications and reports were analysed to synthesize the current state-of-the-art on the species’ biology, ecology, threats and conservation. Key findings include the genetic structure of the population, its dietary habits, its habitat preferences, its seasonal movements, and new available monitoring methods. The underlying mechanisms of critical anthropogenic threats are further documented through targeted examples and figures concerning the decline of its populations. Based on these results, potential conservation actions to protect and recover Galemys pyrenaicus and its habitat are presented and discussed. Recommendations are finally provided regarding both technical and non-technical aspects of future conservation plans, including the focus of further research on this species.