Evidence of Extinct Giant Kangaroos Discovered in Australia
Paleontological research conducted by scientists from Flinders University has revealed three previously unidentified extinct species of giant kangaroos, expanding our understanding of Australia's prehistoric wildlife. These species, which include Protemnodon viator, Protemnodon mamkurra, and Protemnodon dawsonae, belong to the extinct genus Protemnodon. They lived from around 5 million to 40,000 years ago and displayed a remarkable diversity in size, habitat adaptation, and locomotion.
The heaviest of these species, Protemnodon viator, weighed an estimated 170 kilograms, nearly double the size of today's largest living kangaroo, the red kangaroo. The discovery is based on skeletal remains found at multiple sites, including Lake Callabonna in South Australia, between 2013 and 2019. The identification of these species, one of which was first described by British paleontologist Sir Richard Owen in 1874, offers new insights into the ecological niches occupied by these ancient marsupials and their evolutionary responses to environmental changes.
The research also contributes to a deeper understanding of the paleo-biodiversity of Australia, potentially shedding light on the reasons behind the decline and eventual extinction of these large marsupials. Furthermore, these findings could stimulate interest in paleontological tourism and enhance public awareness about the importance of biodiversity and conservation.
