Footprint Analysis Identifies Cryptic Small Mammal Species with 96% Accuracy

Tiny mammals, often overlooked in conservation efforts, are now being tracked through their footprints—offering a silent but vital early warning system for ecosystem health.

A recent study demonstrates that footprint-based morphometry can distinguish cryptic small mammal species with 96% accuracy, using non-invasive methods that could transform ecological monitoring.

The research team focused on Eastern Rock sengis and Bushveld sengis, two closely related species inhabiting distinct environments. By analyzing 100+ potential footprint features with specialized software, they identified nine key morphometric indicators that reliably differentiate the species.

This approach avoids DNA sampling or direct observation, which can disturb sensitive populations.

"Firstly, to find a better, more ethical, and more scientifically robust way to monitor even the tiniest species, and secondly, to provide a reliable and broad metric for ecosystem integrity that can be applied routinely and regularly — a new pulse on the planet," the researchers stated in their methodology description. The technique's scalability to other cryptic species remains under investigation, though preliminary results suggest broad applicability.

While the study emphasizes the method's cost-effectiveness and minimal ecological impact, the authors caution that further validation is required across diverse habitats and species.

The current work represents a proof-of-concept for sengis, with plans to expand the database to include additional small mammals facing habitat fragmentation.