Nullarbor dwarf bettong facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Nullarbor dwarf bettong |
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The Nullarbor dwarf bettong (scientific name: Bettongia pusilla) was a small, kangaroo-like animal from Australia. It was a type of marsupial, which means it carried its young in a pouch. We only know about this animal from bones found in caves on the Nullarbor Plain. Sadly, it is now considered extinct, meaning it no longer exists.
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Discovering the Nullarbor Dwarf Bettong
Scientists first officially described the Nullarbor dwarf bettong in 1997. A scientist named R. A. McNamara published the description. He used bones found in caves on the Nullarbor Plain. These caves include Koonalda Cave and Weekes Cave.
What is a Holotype?
The main bone used to describe this new species is called a holotype. It was part of a young animal's right jaw. This special bone was found at the Koonalda cave site.
How it Got its Name
The scientific name pusilla comes from Latin. It means "small," which fits this animal's size. The English name, Nullarbor dwarf bettong, was also suggested by McNamara.
What the Nullarbor Dwarf Bettong Looked Like
The Nullarbor dwarf bettong had a special jaw and teeth. These features help scientists tell it apart from other bettongs. Its jawbone was lighter than those of bettongs alive today. Its teeth were also smaller.
Unique Teeth
The molars (back teeth) of Bettongia pusilla were straight on the sides. They also had a raised top part. This is different from other bettong species, which have more rounded or "bulbous" molars.
Where it Lived and Why it Disappeared
The only places we have found bones of the Nullarbor dwarf bettong are in caves. These caves are located on the Nullarbor Plain. This area is a very dry desert in southern Australia.
Extinction in Australia
Scientists believe this species died out during the time when Europeans began settling in Australia. This happened in the states of Western Australia and South Australia.
