Potential distribution of feral pig, Sus scrofa (Artiodactyla: Suidae) and collared peccary, Pecari tajacu (Artiodactyla: Tayassuidae) in Laguna de Terminos region, Mexico

Introduction: The presence of feral pigs (Sus scrofa) in addition to habitat fragmentation at Laguna de Terminos, Campeche, could cause changes in the distribution patterns and presence of collared peccaries (Pecari tajacu). Objective: Modelling of potential distribution to assess the overlap or spatial segregation of both species at Laguna de Terminos, Campeche. Methods: Potential distribution models were generated with presence data, anthropic and bioclimatic variables using the maximum entropy algorithm (Maxent). Results: The potential distribution models showed spatial segregation between both species. The presence of feral pigs was positively influenced by palm oil crops (Elaeis gui neensis) proximity and seasonal rainfall; the potential distribution of collared peccaries was positively correlated with temperature and canopy coverage. Evidence of feral pigs presence was confirmed in Escarcega, Carmen, Candelaria and Palizada in Campeche state and in Balancan and Jonuta in Tabasco state. Our models predicted potential areas for feral pigs in Pantanos de Centla Biosphere Reserve in Tabasco and in areas near the Guatemalan border. Conclusions: We believe a control plan for feral pigs is needed, not only in Laguna de Terminos region, but also in adjacent areas in order to prevent the range extension and displacement of native species such as peccaries in other areas in Southern Mexico.