Near-Complete Fossil of Extinct Short-Faced Kangaroo Discovered in Australian Cave

Palaeontologists have uncovered a near-complete fossil of an extinct short-faced kangaroo in a cave in Buchan, Victoria, Australia. The fossil, belonging to the species Simosthenurus occidentalis, is one of the most complete examples of this kangaroo species ever found in Australia. The skeleton, which is 71% complete, was discovered by a team of recreational cavers and scientists from Museums Victoria.

The fossil is estimated to be around 49,400 years old, based on radiocarbon dating and the presence of charcoal layers associated with the specimen. The discovery provides valuable insights into the unique anatomy and sudden extinction of this species, which may have been due to environmental factors.

The short-faced kangaroo had a distinctive anatomy compared to modern-day kangaroos, including a squarish head, robust lower jaw, and flexible shoulders that allowed it to digest leaves and branches. The juvenile kangaroo's skull was the same size as an adult human, and the species was much heavier than modern kangaroos, weighing up to 120kg.

Why this matters: The discovery of the near-complete short-faced kangaroo fossil sheds light on the unique biodiversity that once existed in Australia. Understanding the factors that led to the sudden extinction of this species, along with 85% of Australia's large-bodied mammals, reptiles, and birds around 46,000 years ago, can provide insights into the impact of environmental changes and inform conservation efforts for extant species.

The fossil was initially discovered in 2011 by Joshua van Dyk, a recreational caver, in Nightshade Cave in Victoria, Australia. Paleontologist Tim Ziegler and his team from Museums Victoria then recovered the remarkably well-preserved fossil from the cave environment. The Buchan cave area in East Gippsland is known for its rich fossil record, including other extinct megafauna, and has significant scientific potential to help understand the region's past ecosystems.

"The short-faced kangaroo's sudden extinction around 46,000 years ago, along with the extinction of 85% of Australia's large-bodied mammals, reptiles, and birds, is a reminder of the need to protect the environment against loss, as factors such as climate change, habitat loss, and human practices may have contributed to their demise," said Tim Ziegler, the lead paleontologist on the discovery. The involvement of citizen cavers in the exploration and discovery of fossils in remote cave systems is highlighted as essential for advancing paleontological research.

Key Takeaways

• Near-complete fossil of extinct short-faced kangaroo found in Victoria, Australia.
• Fossil is 71% complete and estimated to be 49,400 years old.
• Short-faced kangaroo had distinctive anatomy, including a large skull and heavy build.
• Sudden extinction of this species and 85% of Australia's megafauna 46,000 years ago.
• Citizen cavers' involvement crucial for discovering fossils in remote cave systems.