Unduavi gracile opossum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Unduavi gracile opossum |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Cryptonanus
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| Species: |
unduaviensis
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| Unduavi gracile opossum range | |
The Unduavi gracile opossum (Cryptonanus unduaviensis) is a small, shy animal. It is a type of opossum, which belongs to a group of mammals called marsupials. Marsupials are known for carrying their babies in a pouch.
This special opossum lives in northern Bolivia. It likes to live in areas that are grasslands that get flooded at certain times of the year.
Scientists have studied this opossum for many years. Some of these opossums were once thought to be a different kind. They were believed to be a subspecies of another opossum called Gracilinanus agilis. But now, experts know that the Unduavi gracile opossum is its own unique species!
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What is a Gracile Opossum?
Gracile opossums are small marsupials. They are usually found in Central and South America. The word "gracile" means slender or delicate. This describes their small, light bodies.
They often have soft fur and long tails. These tails can sometimes help them grip branches. Gracile opossums are mostly active at night. This means they are nocturnal.
Where Does the Unduavi Gracile Opossum Live?
This specific opossum lives only in a certain part of northern Bolivia. It prefers habitats that are grasslands. These grasslands get wet and flooded during the rainy season.
This kind of environment is important for the opossum. It provides both food and shelter. The exact places where it lives are still being studied.
What Does It Eat?
Like many small opossums, the Unduavi gracile opossum likely eats a varied diet. They are omnivores. This means they eat both plants and animals.
Their diet probably includes insects, small fruits, and perhaps even tiny birds or eggs. They use their keen senses to find food in the dark.
How Big Is It?
Gracile opossums are generally quite small. They are much smaller than the opossums you might see in North America. The Unduavi gracile opossum is probably only a few inches long.
Its tail can be as long as its body, or even longer. This small size helps it move easily through dense grass and bushes.
Why is it Important to Study This Opossum?
The Unduavi gracile opossum is listed as "Data Deficient" (DD) by the IUCN. This means scientists do not have enough information about it. They don't know how many of these opossums exist. They also don't know if its population is growing or shrinking.
More research is needed to understand this species better. Learning about its habitat and habits helps protect it. Protecting these unique animals helps keep our planet healthy.
