Beaver

Category: Environment & Ecology — Mammals

  • Beavers are large semi-aquatic rodents belonging to the genus Castor.
  • Two living species are recognised:
    • North American beaver — Castor canadensis
    • Eurasian beaver — Castor fiber
  • Beavers are famous for constructing dams using branches, logs and mud.
  • Their activities can modify streams and create wetlands.
  • They are therefore considered important ecosystem engineers.
  • Beaver-created wetlands can provide habitat for numerous other species.

Key Pointer: Beaver → Castor → Dam builder → Ecosystem engineer → Wetland creation.