Researchers have discovered that minuscule marsupial newborns, weighing less than a grain of rice, have a remarkable ability to crawl towards their mother’s pouch shortly after birth. Unlike placental mammals, marsupials are born after extremely short gestation periods and must make their way to a pouch where they attach to a teat and continue their development. This process has long been a mystery for many rare and small marsupial species, even those kept in captive colonies.
One such species is the fat-tailed dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata), which is closely related to the extinct Tasmanian tiger (Thylacinus cynocephalus). Researchers at the University of Melbourne, led by Brandon Menzies, have been studying these marsupials in the hope of one day bringing back the Tasmanian tiger through gene-editing dunnarts. However, despite closely monitoring the fertility of the females in their colony, the researchers had never observed the birth of pouch young or witnessed how they make their way to the mother’s pouch.
That all changed in 2024 when a member of the research team discovered blood in one of the enclosures. Upon further examination, they found tiny neonates, weighing only 5 milligrams, crawling towards their mother’s pouch. Menzies managed to capture 22 seconds of footage showing the newborns waving their arms and wriggling as they made their way to the pouch in a freestyle-swimming type of crawl.
What makes this discovery even more remarkable is the fact that these young marsupials are only 14 days old when they begin this journey. Despite their small size and early developmental stage, they exhibit an incredible capacity for survival and growth. The researchers estimate that the young dunnarts were making arm movements at a rapid rate of about 120 per minute as they navigated towards the teats.
Surviving as a young marsupial is a challenging task, as many species give birth to more offspring than the number of teats available. Fat-tailed dunnarts, for example, can gestate up to 17 young but can only feed 10. This competitive attrition rate is less severe compared to species like Tasmanian devils, which give birth to up to 30 young but have only four teats.
Menzies emphasizes the incredible developmental capacity of fat-tailed dunnarts, noting that just 10 days earlier, they were mere zygotes composed of a few cells. The ability of these newborns to crawl on their own to the mother’s pouch highlights the extraordinary nature of marsupial development and the resilience of these tiny creatures.
As researchers continue to study the unique reproductive strategies of marsupials, each new discovery sheds light on the fascinating world of these small but resilient creatures.
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the Australian outback, where you will delve deep into the ancient history of this remarkable land. Over the course of 13 unforgettable days, you will have the opportunity to trace the footsteps of prehistoric giants and uncover the secrets of Earth’s past.
Your adventure will take you to some of the most remote and breathtaking locations in the outback, where stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage await. As you travel through this rugged terrain, you will have the chance to witness firsthand the wonders of nature and learn about the fascinating history of the region.
One of the highlights of your journey will be the opportunity to visit sites where ancient Aboriginal rock art can be found. These incredible artworks offer a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the indigenous people who have called this land home for thousands of years. You will have the chance to learn about the stories and traditions behind these intricate designs, gaining a deeper understanding of Australia’s rich cultural heritage.
In addition to exploring the ancient history of the outback, you will also have the chance to encounter some of the region’s unique wildlife. From kangaroos and emus to rare and endangered species, the outback is home to a diverse array of creatures that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Keep your camera ready, as you never know what fascinating wildlife encounters await around the next corner.
Throughout your journey, you will be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who will enrich your experience with their insights and expertise. They will share with you the stories and legends of the outback, helping you to connect with the land and its people on a deeper level. You will also have the chance to meet with local communities and learn about their way of life, gaining a firsthand perspective on the challenges and triumphs of living in this remote and beautiful landscape.
As you travel through the outback, you will have the opportunity to reflect on the vastness and age of the land around you. The outback is a place of ancient beauty and mystery, where the forces of nature have shaped the landscape over millions of years. By tracing the footsteps of prehistoric giants and uncovering the secrets of Earth’s ancient history, you will gain a new appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.
So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. Over 13 unforgettable days, you will journey deep into the heart of the Australian outback, where the past and present collide in a mesmerizing display of beauty and wonder. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore one of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes and make memories that will last a lifetime.
