In a recent discovery by researchers at Curtin University, three previously unknown species of small Australian marsupials known as mulgaras have been identified. While this finding contributes to our knowledge of marsupials related to Tasmanian Devils and quolls, it is overshadowed by the unfortunate likelihood that these newly recognized species are already extinct. Mulgaras, which are renowned for their carnivorous habits, play a significant ecological role in arid and semi-arid regions across South Australia, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and Queensland.
This research effort, spearheaded by Curtin Ph.D. student Jake Newman-Martin, in collaboration with Dr. Kenny Travouillon from the Western Australian Museum, Associate Professor Natalie Warburton from Murdoch University, and Associate Professor Milo Barham and Dr. Alison Blyth, both from Curtin University, involved the analysis of preserved mulgara specimens from various museums nationwide, including previously unidentified bones found in caves.
The Significance of Mulgaras in Ecosystems
Mr. Newman-Martin emphasized that this research has not only identified six distinct mulgara species, in contrast to the previously accepted two, but it has also verified the validity of a previously named third mulgara species. Regrettably, it appears that four of these newly proposed species may have already succumbed to extinction.
Mulgaras, often referred to as ‘ecosystem engineers,’ play a vital role in the regions they inhabit by controlling insect and small rodent populations and aiding in the process of soil turnover through their burrowing activities. By meticulously measuring the skulls and teeth of preserved mulgara specimens, the researchers were able to differentiate between these species. This study sheds light on the previously underestimated diversity within the mulgara population.
Challenges Faced by Australian Marsupials
Dr. Kenny Travouillon, a co-author of this research and the Curator of Mammalogy at the Western Australian Museum, pointed out that while the discovery of additional mulgara species may initially seem promising, the disconcerting fact remains that they are likely already extinct.
Australia, despite its reputation for housing diverse and unique marsupials, also holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest mammalian extinction rate globally. Many species are grappling with the detrimental effects of environmental degradation and the presence of introduced predators such as foxes and cats. Often, it is the smaller marsupials, which have seen a significant decline in their abundance and distribution since European colonization, that are the most vulnerable. The mulgaras may even represent the first recorded extinction within the broader family of related animals known as Dasyuridae, and their plight has received far less recognition compared to their infamous ‘cousins,’ the Tasmanian Tigers (Thylacines).
This discovery underscores the urgent need to enhance our understanding of Australian wildlife and address the growing threats to its ecosystems. The research paper, titled “Taxonomic review of the genus Dasycercus (Dasyuromorphia: Dasyuridae) using modern and subfossil material; and the description of three new species,” was published on November 30, 2023, in Alcheringa: An Australasian Journal of Palaeontology (DOI: 10.1080/03115518.2023.2262083).
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mulgaras Extinction
Q: What are mulgaras, and why is this discovery significant?
A: Mulgaras are small Australian marsupials known for their carnivorous behavior. The discovery of three new mulgara species is significant as it expands our understanding of these creatures and their ecological roles.
Q: Who conducted this research?
A: The research was conducted by a team led by Jake Newman-Martin, a Ph.D. student at Curtin University. The collaboration also included experts from the Western Australian Museum, Murdoch University, and Curtin University.
Q: How were these new mulgara species identified?
A: The researchers analyzed preserved mulgara specimens from various museums across Australia, including previously unidentified bones found in caves. Precise measurements of skulls and teeth were used to differentiate between the species.
Q: What is the ecological importance of mulgaras?
A: Mulgaras are considered “ecosystem engineers” because they help control insect and small rodent populations and contribute to soil turnover through their burrowing activities. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of arid and semi-arid ecosystems.
Q: Why is the likely extinction of these newly discovered mulgara species concerning?
A: Australia faces a high rate of mammalian extinction, primarily due to environmental degradation and the presence of introduced predators like foxes and cats. The potential extinction of these mulgaras underscores the broader challenges of conserving Australian wildlife.
Q: Where can I find more information about this research?
A: The research paper titled “Taxonomic review of the genus Dasycercus (Dasyuromorphia: Dasyuridae) using modern and subfossil material; and the description of three new species” was published in Alcheringa: An Australasian Journal of Palaeontology on November 30, 2023 (DOI: 10.1080/03115518.2023.2262083).
More about Mulgaras Extinction
- Research Paper: The full research paper titled “Taxonomic review of the genus Dasycercus (Dasyuromorphia: Dasyuridae) using modern and subfossil material; and the description of three new species” published in Alcheringa: An Australasian Journal of Palaeontology.
- Curtin University: Curtin University, where the lead researcher, Jake Newman-Martin, is affiliated.
- Western Australian Museum: The Western Australian Museum, where Dr. Kenny Travouillon is Curator of Mammalogy.
- Murdoch University: Murdoch University, where Associate Professor Natalie Warburton is affiliated.
- Curtin University Department of Environment and Agriculture: The department at Curtin University involved in the research.
