Eupleres

Eupleres refers to a genus of Malagasy carnivorans within the family Eupleridae, also known as the Malagasy mongooses or euplerids. Currently, the genus Eupleres contains only one recognized species: Eupleres goudotii, commonly called the Falanouc.

The Falanouc is characterized by a slender body, short legs, and a long, pointed snout. It possesses a distinctive dental structure that is well-suited for consuming invertebrates such as worms, insect larvae, and snails, which make up the bulk of its diet. Falanoucs have partially webbed feet, an adaptation that aids in locomotion through the dense, wet forests they inhabit in eastern Madagascar.

Falanoucs are typically found in lowland rainforests and swampy areas. They are primarily terrestrial animals, spending most of their time on the forest floor searching for food. Though primarily active during the day (diurnal), they can also be observed at night (crepuscular).

The Falanouc's conservation status is listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), due to its relatively wide distribution and presumed stable population. However, habitat loss and degradation from deforestation and agricultural expansion pose potential threats to the species' long-term survival. Further research is needed to fully understand its population dynamics and ecological role within the Malagasy ecosystem.