The current distribution of Limnogale is uncertain. Not surprisingly, it has only been captured or observed in or near streams, rivers, and marshes. Of the approximately 30 specimens preserved in U.S., European, and Malagasy museums, few are associated with detailed field or collecting notes. We have recently compiled all credible distribution records for Limnogale (see figure), resulting in only 11 sites, many of which may no longer support populations. Those that remain are likely disjunct. In contrast, most species of shrew tenrec (Microgale) range farther north and south, suggesting that Limnogale may likewise encompass a wider latitudinal distribution.

One interesting facet of the distribution of Limnogale is that it is found not only in eastern river systems, but also in nearby headwater reaches of westward flowing rivers (e.g., the Mania) on the eastern edge of the central highlands. Given that Limnogale appears to restrict its movement to stream channels (see next section), the existence of Limnogale populations on both sides of Madagascar’s continental divide begs questions about whether, and to what extent, these populations have become isolated.

Limnogale's reliance on aquatic environments presumably constrains its movements and dispersal (and hence gene flow), but this has never been studied. Such information is critical to the long-term viability of the species.

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