Blastocerus

Blastocerus is a genus of deer native to South America. The genus currently contains a single living species, Blastocerus dichotomus, commonly known as the marsh deer. This is the largest deer species in South America. Marsh deer are found in wetland habitats, including marshes, swamps, and flooded grasslands, primarily in the Pantanal region of Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay, as well as parts of Argentina and Peru.

The marsh deer is characterized by its long legs, which are an adaptation for wading through water and mud. Its coat is reddish-brown to yellowish-brown, and it has large ears. Males possess antlers which are dichotomous, meaning they fork once, with each fork then branching further. These antlers are shed annually. The marsh deer is a herbivore, feeding on aquatic vegetation, grasses, and leaves. They are generally solitary animals, though they may form small groups, particularly during the mating season. The primary threats to the marsh deer include habitat loss and degradation due to agriculture and development, as well as hunting and increased competition with livestock. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this unique species and its wetland environment.