Mukupirna fortidentata

April 3, 2023

Scientists in Australia have discovered evidence of a previously unknown ancient marsupial called Mukupirna fortidentata.
This ancient species roamed the country around 25 million years ago.
The Mukupirna fortidentata is thought to have weighed up to 50 kg, making it one of the largest marsupials alive at the time.
It is believed to have consumed tough fruits and nuts. It is related to Mukupirna nambensis, another marsupial species.
The mukupirnids seemed to have gone extinct sometime before the end of the late Oligocene (25-23 million years ago) during a period of changing climate as ancient forest regions in Australia’s centre became increasingly arid.