Andean shrew opossum, Condor caenolestid
The Andean caenolestid (Caenolestes condorensis ), also known as the Andean shrew opossum or Condor caenolestid, is a shrew opossum known only from Cordillera del Cóndor (Ecuador), its type locality. It was first described by zoologists Bruce D. Patterson and Albuja V. Luis in 1996. It is the largest caenolestid. The IUCN classifies it as vulnerable. As of 2015, the population is estimated at less than 1,000.
Patterson and Luis identified the Andean caenolestid as the largest in its family. It is characterized by large, heavy canines, long rostrum (nearly 2 cm (0.79 in) long), massive skull (nearly 3.8 cm (1.5 in) long), whitish whiskers, dark brown coat, and a dark spot on the chest. The mean external measurements recorded from the three specimens were as follows: the total length was 26 cm (10 in), the weight was 48 g (1.7 oz), the tail was 13 cm (5.1 in) long, the hindfeet measured 3 cm (1.2 in) and the ears 1.8 cm (0.71 in). Sexual dimorphism is prominent, with males larger than females.
The Andean caenolestid is known only from Cordillera del Cóndor, which is located in the eastern Andes. The locality is characterized by ash deposits dating to the Cretaceous, vegetation less than 1.5 metres (4.9 ft) in height and bromeliads (locally known as "achupallas"). The specimens were captured on the ecotone (interface) between the short grassy vegetation of the plateau and the higher, wooded slopes. The IUCN classifies it as vulnerable. As of 2015, the population is estimated at less than 1,000.