Two Marsupials Thought to Be Extinct for 6,000 Years Discovered Alive in Remote Rainforest

**Ancient Marsupials Rediscovered in New Guinea Rainforests**

In a remarkable turn of events, two species of marsupials believed to have been extinct for over 6,000 years have been found alive in the lush rainforests of Western New Guinea. This groundbreaking discovery has been chronicled in recent studies published in the *Records of the Australian Museum*, shedding light on the resilient biodiversity of our planet.

Researchers identified living specimens of the pygmy long-fingered possum (*Dactylonax kambuayai*) and the ring-tailed glider (*Tous ayamaruensis*), both of which were located on the Vogelkop Peninsula. The term “Lazarus species” applies to these animals, which were previously known only from fossil records and thought to have vanished from existence. This classification denotes species that have been rediscovered after a significant period of presumed extinction.

Professor Tim Flannery, an esteemed researcher and Distinguished Visiting Fellow at the Australian Museum, expressed the significance of this find. “The discovery of one Lazarus taxon, even if thought to have become extinct recently, is an exceptional discovery,” he noted. “The discovery of two species, thought to have been extinct for thousands of years, is remarkable.”

The breakthrough was a culmination of decades of research, integrating fossil fragments, infrequent photographs taken by local scientists, and invaluable knowledge from Indigenous communities. This multi-faceted approach highlighted the importance of diverse forms of evidence in scientific discovery.

The pygmy long-fingered possum, characterised by its striking stripes and notable for having one finger on each hand that is twice as long as the others, was previously believed to have disappeared during the Ice Age. In contrast, the ring-tailed glider is related to Australia’s greater glider and stands out as the first newly described genus of New Guinean marsupial since 1937. Notably smaller than its Australian relative, the ring-tailed glider boasts unfurred ears and a robust prehensile tail, adaptations that underscore its unique evolutionary path.

Indigenous knowledge played a critical role in the discovery. Rika Korain, a Maybrat researcher and co-author of the study, explained the profound cultural connection Indigenous communities have with the glider. “Referred to locally as ‘Tous’ by some Tambrauw and Maybrat clans, the glider is a sacred animal,” Korain stated. “We worked very carefully and collaboratively with Tambrauw Elders, and identification would not have been possible without cooperation with Traditional Owners.”

The collaboration extended to local Papuan researchers, who, alongside Indigenous communities, were instrumental in locating these marsupials in their remote forest habitats. This partnership exemplifies the potential for collaborative efforts between scientists and Indigenous peoples to enhance conservation outcomes.

Professor Flannery remarked on the geological significance of the Vogelkop region, stating, “The Vogelkop is an ancient piece of the Australian continent that has become incorporated into the island of New Guinea. Its forests may shelter yet more hidden relics of a past Australia.” This insight underscores the importance of safeguarding the unique ecosystems that may hold further surprises in terms of lost species and ecological heritage.

These extraordinary discoveries have sparked renewed calls for the protection of New Guinea’s rainforests, which serve as crucial habitats for the pygmy long-fingered possum, the ring-tailed glider, and potentially other undiscovered species. Conservationists warn that the ecosystems in these areas are under threat, and urgent action is required to preserve them for future generations.

The rediscovery of these species not only elevates our understanding of biodiversity but also highlights the vital interplay between scientific inquiry and the traditional ecological knowledge of Indigenous peoples. As researchers continue to explore the verdant depths of New Guinea’s forests, the hope remains that further remarkable species will emerge from the shadows of oblivion.