Hypsiprymnodontinae

Hypsiprymnodontinae is a subfamily of extinct kangaroos within the family Hypsiprymnodontidae. This subfamily is known from the Oligocene epoch and is characterized by its relatively small size and primitive features. Fossil evidence suggests that hypsiprymnodontines were among the earliest true kangaroos, possessing a more generalized dentition compared to later, more specialized forms. Their limb structure indicates they were likely terrestrial, though perhaps not as adapted for saltatorial locomotion as modern kangaroos.

The subfamily currently contains only one described genus, Hypsiprymnodon. However, the taxonomic classification of this group has been subject to revision, with some researchers considering Hypsiprymnodon to be a more basal member of the kangaroo lineage, predating the divergence of the hypsiprymnodontid and macropodid families. The discovery of new fossils continues to refine our understanding of their evolutionary relationships and ecological roles. Hypsiprymnodontines offer valuable insights into the early diversification of macropodiform marsupials in Australia. Their existence highlights a period of significant evolutionary experimentation within the marsupial fauna of the continent.