Mammals of Middle and South America: Lagomorpha

Despite their ecological significance and evolutionary intrigue, the lagomorphs of Middle and South America have long lacked a unified, regionally focused synthesis. This volume, part of the Handbook of the Mammals of Middle and South America , fills this critical gap by bringing together the latest scientific knowledge on all native and introduced species of Romerolagus , Sylvilagus , and Lepus across continental and insular systems. This authoritative volume provides comprehensive overviews of each species’ biology, covering paleontology, physiology, genetics, reproduction and development, ecology, habitat, diet, population dynamics, and mortality. Chapters also explore economic importance, species management, and the urgent conservation challenges facing these understudied mammals. Each species account is richly supported by distribution maps, high-quality photographs, and key literature, offering an indispensable resource for understanding the region’s lagomorph diversity. Combining expertise from an international team of specialists in taxonomy, systematics, ecology, behavior, disease, and conservation, this book links evolutionary history to contemporary ecological pressures—highlighting both the scientific value of Neotropical lagomorphs and the pivotal role they play in their ecosystems. A timely and comprehensive reference, this volume will appeal to academics, students, conservation practitioners, wildlife managers, and policymakers seeking a reliable scientific foundation for research and conservation action. Beyond synthesizing current knowledge, it aims to inspire and guide future work on one of the least explored components of Middle and South America’s mammalian fauna.