A team of Australian scientists has revealed the discovery of a new species of marsupial native to the forests of Australia, closely related to the kangaroo, but that is likely already extinct.
The finding published in the journal Zootaxa is based on the analysis of fossils collected in caves in Nullarbor and the southwest of the country. It was carried out by researchers from the Curtin University, the Western Australian Museum, and Murdoch University.
Woylies: small ecosystem engineers in critical danger
These marsupials excavate tons of soil each year and are key to soil health.
The woylies, also known as brush-tailed bettongs or rat-kangaroo, are small-sized marsupials that perform vital ecological functions.
By searching for underground fungi, they move large volumes of soil, promoting soil aeration, spore dispersion, and plant regeneration. However, their population has decreased drastically, and they are now considered a critically endangered species.
New living subspecies and an extinct species: keys to conservation
The study redefines the woylie’s diversity and provides tools for its recovery.
The lead author of the study, Jake Newman-Martin, a PhD student at Curtin University, explained that the analysis allowed them to name a new extinct species —Bettongia haoucharae— and identify two living subspecies of woylie. This distinction is crucial for breeding and translocation programs, as it helps preserve genetic diversity and improve population fitness.
“Many of these species disappeared before we even knew they existed,” lamented Newman-Martin.
Discover a new species of marsupial that could already be extinct
Paleontology and genetics: an alliance to protect what remains
The study combined bone measurements with molecular tools to expand taxonomic knowledge
Co-author Dr. Kenny Travouillon, curator of Terrestrial Zoology at the Western Australian Museum, highlighted that the team used detailed measurements of skulls and fossil skeletons, many of which had never been analyzed in depth.
This approach allowed them to confirm the existence of several distinct species and redefine the diversity of the Bettongia genus.
Collaborative science and cultural respect: towards inclusive nomenclature
The scientific name will be reviewed with indigenous communities to reflect local knowledge.
Although the new species has been described as Bettongia haoucharae, the researchers announced that they will work with Noongar indigenous peoples to identify an appropriate collaborative name, recognizing the value of traditional knowledge in the conservation of native species.
Museum collections: hidden treasures for science and conservation
The study was based on specimens from Australian and European museums, revealing the potential of fossil archives.
The research examined materials from institutions such as the Western Australian Museum, the Australian Museum, the Natural History Museum in London, and the University of Oxford, demonstrating that museums are key allies in reconstructing evolutionary history and guiding current conservation strategies.
