Conservation status of the Torrent Ducks Merganetta

Abstract

In total, seven separate Torrent Duck taxa have been described, although a tentative classification followed in this paper includes only a single species Merganetta armata and three subspecies (M. a. armata, M. a. leucogenis, and M. a. colombiana). Distribution limits of these taxa are inadequately known, although preliminary delimitations are provided. Population estimates and trends are provided for each subspecies, and an assessment against the new IUCN Red List Categories shows that two qualify as globally threatened, while the nominate subspecies and the species as a whole qualify as Low Risk (least concern). Priority actions for the conservation of this group include a revision of the systematics, production of `key catchment' inventories and the production and implementation of catchment management plans.