Definition
A large, semi-aquatic rodent native to South America, resembling an oversized rat with a round tail, that has become an invasive species in North America, Europe, and Asia. Despite being farmed for fur, escaped or released nutrias damage wetland ecosystems and agricultural areas.
Example Usage
The wildlife management team set traps to control the nutria population that was destroying the marsh vegetation.
Origin
From Spanish 'nutria,' derived from Guarani 'nutria,' referring to the animal in its native South American range.
Fun Fact
Nutrias have orange-tinted teeth due to iron deposits in their enamel and can hold their breath for up to five minutes underwater.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
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