The Chlamyphorus truncatus, or pink fairy armadillo, is the smallest species of armadillo. Native only to the country of Argentina, this species is considered threatened, and the current amount of living members is unknown. It's part of the the subfamily Chlamyphorinae, which has only one other species, the greater fairy armadillo.
Description
The pink fairy armadillo is the smallest species of armadillo, measuring between 90-115 millimeters (about a decimeter). They have large front claws for digging, as they live underground, and much softer shells than other armadillos.
Their shell is flatter at the back, and is used to compress dirt behind them as they are burrowing, which could help with the stability of the burrows. The shell is also attached by thin membrane, so the armadillo can still grow fur under it. The fur is fine, and is used to regulate temperature in a habitat where temperatures are highly variable.
Habitat
The pink armadillo is a nocturnal, subterranean species that can only be found in the deserts and shrublands of Argentina. It's extremely sensitive to changes in environment, like climate and soil. It must live undisturbed places that are perfect for burrowing. This is why most pink fairy armadillos die within hours of being in captivity, often in transportation to where it would kept. The longest living captive pink fairy armadillo lived not more than 4 years.
Diet
Pink fairy armadillos are insectivores, and often eat ants and larvae underground. However, they will also eat a various amount of others insects and some plants if needed. In captivity, they have also accepted certain fruits like watermelon and avocados.