Tolypeutinae

Tolypeutinae is a subfamily of armadillos in the family Chlamyphoridae. This subfamily contains three extant genera: Cabassous, Priodontes, and Tolypeutes. These armadillos are found in South America, with their distribution ranging from Argentina and Paraguay north to parts of Bolivia and Brazil.

The armadillos within Tolypeutinae are characterized by their relatively large size and distinctive bony armor. The genus Cabassous, commonly known as the naked-tailed armadillos, includes species with a reduced or absent tail armor. Priodontes, represented by the giant armadillo, is the largest living armadillo species. Tolypeutes, the three-banded armadillos, are unique for their ability to fully enclose themselves by rolling into a ball when threatened, a defense mechanism not found in all armadillo species.

These animals are primarily terrestrial and inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, savannas, and grasslands. Their diet consists mainly of invertebrates such as insects, ants, and termites, although they may also consume small vertebrates, fruits, and roots. Tolypeutinae species are generally solitary and nocturnal or crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk.

Reproduction varies among the genera, but typically involves a gestation period of a few months and the birth of a small litter. The young armadillos are born with soft skin and develop their bony plates over time. Some species within Tolypeutinae are considered to be of conservation concern due to habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as hunting in some regions.