Myocastor coypus, commonly known as the nutria or coypu, is native to South America. Its geographical distribution includes countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile. Nutria are typically found in regions that have abundant freshwater resources.

Nutria prefer wetland environments, including marshes, swamps, and riverbanks. They inhabit areas with ample water sources, such as lakes, rivers, and ponds. The climate in their native region is generally temperate to subtropical, providing suitable conditions for their survival.

Nutria play a significant role in their ecosystem by aiding in vegetation control. They feed primarily on aquatic plants but can also consume crops and other vegetation, impacting agricultural areas. They are known to construct burrows in riverbanks, which can influence soil erosion and waterway navigation.