Marsupials
Marsupials
Marsupials (pronunciation: /mɑːˈsjuːpɪəlz/) are a group of mammals that are distinguished by their unique reproductive process. The term "marsupial" is derived from the Latin word marsupium, which means "pouch".
Etymology
The term "marsupial" comes from the Latin marsupium, meaning "pouch". This refers to the distinguishing characteristic of marsupials, where the female carries its young in a pouch after birth.
Characteristics
Marsupials are characterized by giving birth to relatively undeveloped young. These newborns, known as Joeys, then continue their development outside of the womb, often within a pouch on the mother's body. Marsupials also have a unique bone structure, with differences in the pelvis and shoulder regions compared to other mammals.
Types of Marsupials
There are over 330 species of marsupials, including the kangaroo, koala, and wombat. Marsupials are predominantly found in Australia and New Guinea, but there are also species found in the Americas, such as the opossum.
Evolution
The evolution of marsupials is a topic of ongoing research. It is believed that marsupials originated in South America and then migrated to other parts of the world.
Related Terms
- Monotremes: Another group of mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young.
- Placental Mammals: Mammals that give birth to live young that have been nourished in the womb by a placenta.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Marsupials
- Wikipedia's article - Marsupials
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