Marlerds
Marlerds are a fictional lineage of small, nocturnal arboreal marsupials described in speculative ecology and fantasy literature. They are placed in the order Diprotodontia and form the family Marlerdidae in these works. The name is said to derive from a fictional Marler language meaning "watchful beneath the branches."
Adults measure roughly 18–28 cm in body length, with tails of similar length, and weigh about 0.25–0.6
Marlerds are described as native to subtropical cloud forests and riparian woodlands on the Mistwood Archipelago
They are predominantly nocturnal and largely solitary, though small family groups may form. Marlerds are omnivorous,
Reproduction is marsupial: a short gestation followed by underdeveloped young that continue development in a ventral
Conservation status varies by setting; in many stories, marlerds are abundant in protected habitats but threatened