Manidae

Manidae is the family of pangolins, mammals native to Africa and Asia, and the only extant family in the order Pholidota. It comprises three extant genera: Manis (Asian pangolins), Phataginus (African tree pangolins), and Smutsia (African ground pangolins). Together they include eight described species, distributed from sub-Saharan Africa to South and Southeast Asia.

Pangolins are characterized by their overlapping keratinous scales, which cover most of the body, and by their lack of teeth. They have long, slender snouts and a highly specialized tongue used to capture ants and termites. Their forelimbs bear strong claws for digging into nests; some species are mainly arboreal, others terrestrial. When threatened, most pangolins curl into a tight ball, with their scales acting as armor. They are generally nocturnal or crepuscular and largely insectivorous.

Ecology and behavior: Pangolins forage for ants and termites, using their claws to break into nests and their tongues to collect prey. They are mostly solitary and communicate infrequently through scent and mild vocalizations. Reproduction is slow, with typically one offspring per birth and prolonged maternal care; juvenile independence follows after several months.

Conservation: Pangolins are among the most trafficked mammals. All species face significant threats from illegal hunting and habitat loss, and most are listed by IUCN with statuses ranging from Vulnerable to Critically Endangered. The eight species are also protected under CITES, with trade tightly restricted.