Which South American rainforest otter is the world’s largest otter species?

The giant otter is the world’s largest otter species and lives in rivers, lakes, and flooded forests of South America.

Also called the giant river otter, it can reach about 1.8 metres from head to tail. Its long, streamlined body, webbed feet, and powerful tail make it an efficient swimmer in the Amazon, Orinoco, and La Plata river systems.

Giant otters live in family groups and communicate with a varied set of whistles, snorts, and other calls. Families cooperate when hunting fish, with some individuals helping guard pups while others search underwater.

The species was heavily affected by hunting for its dense fur during the twentieth century. It is now protected in much of its range, but habitat loss, pollution, reduced fish stocks, and conflict with fishing communities remain threats. It is not the same species as the marine-dwelling sea otter.