Phalangeridae

Phalangeridae is a family of arboreal marsupials in the order Diprotodontia, consisting of the possums and cuscuses. Native to Australia, New Guinea and nearby islands, they occupy a range of forest habitats from tropical rainforests to sclerophyll woodlands. Members are generally nocturnal and solitary, spending much of their time in trees.

Taxonomy and diversity: The family comprises several genera, including Ailurops (bear cuscuses), Phalanger, Spilocuscus (spotted cuscuses), Strigocuscus (spectacled cuscuses), and Trichosurus (brush-tailed possums). The group is characterized by strong claws, grasping tails in many species, and an adaptation to arboreal life.

Ecology and biology: Diet varies by species but most are folivorous or omnivorous, consuming leaves, fruit, and flowers; some supplement with nectar or insects. They are adapted to living in the canopy with tails that aid in foraging and locomotion. Reproduction is marsupial; after a brief gestation, the underdeveloped young crawl to the mother's pouch to continue development.

Conservation: Habitat destruction, introduced predators, and hunting have affected several species, leading to declines and listings as vulnerable or endangered. Some species are common in protected areas and in captivity, where they are studied and sometimes bred to maintain populations.