Afrosoricida

Afrosoricida is an order of Afrotherian mammals that includes the living families commonly known as golden moles (Chrysochloridae) and tenrecs (Tenrecidae). In some classifications, otter shrews (Potamogalidae) are also placed within Afrosoricida, joining two major lineages: Tenrecoidea and Chrysochloridea. The group is found mainly in Africa and Madagascar and exhibits a wide range of sizes and ecological specializations.

Golden moles are small, subterranean mammals with cylindrical bodies, short limbs, reduced eyes, and fossorial adaptations such as a velvety coat and a hardened snout for burrowing. Tenrecs are diverse in form and ecology, ranging from insectivorous shrew-like species to larger hedgehog-like forms; many inhabit Madagascar. Otter shrews are semi-aquatic, with webbed feet and long, flexible snouts, and live along streams and rivers in tropical Africa.

Evolution and classification: Afrosoricida is a relatively ancient Afrotherian lineage that diverged early from other placental mammals in the Cenozoic. Molecular data generally support Afrosoricida as a coherent clade, with golden moles and tenrecs most closely related to each other within Afrotheria; the placement of otter shrews varies with analyses. The fossil record is sparse, but divergence estimates place origins in the early to middle Cenozoic.

Distribution and conservation: Afrosoricids inhabit sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. Golden moles occupy arid and tropical habitats; tenrecs are especially diverse in Madagascar; otter shrews occur along freshwater systems. Habitat loss, pollution, and overcollection threaten several species, and some are listed as endangered or vulnerable. Research and habitat protection are critical for their conservation.