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 kg. They have dense fur that ranges from gray-brown to reddish tones, with a distinctive ringed tail used for balance and signaling. Forepaws are equipped with sharp claws for climbing, and hind feet include grasping digits adapted to tree movement.

Marlerds are described as native to subtropical cloud forests and riparian woodlands on the Mistwood Archipelago and adjacent regions. They favor mature trees with abundant epiphytes and fruiting resources and occupy lowland to mid-elevation habitats.

They are predominantly nocturnal and largely solitary, though small family groups may form. Marlerds are omnivorous, feeding on fruit, seeds, nectar, and invertebrates. They communicate with soft calls and scent marks, and use their tails in navigating dense canopy.

Reproduction is marsupial: a short gestation followed by underdeveloped young that continue development in a ventral pouch for about 60–70 days. Litters are typically one or two offspring, with weaning occurring within several months.

Conservation status varies by setting; in many stories, marlerds are abundant in protected habitats but threatened by deforestation and climate change in others. Fictional conservation efforts emphasize habitat protection, corridor establishment, and monitoring. In folklore, they symbolize twilight forest safety.