Potoroidae

Potoroidae is a family of marsupials commonly known as bettongs, potoroos, and rat-kangaroos. These small to medium-sized macropods are native to Australia and New Guinea. They are characterized by their relatively short hindlimbs and long, pointed snouts, differentiating them from their larger kangaroo relatives.

The family is divided into several genera, including Bettongia (bettongs), Caloprymnus (plains rat-kangaroo, extinct), Aepyprymnus (rufous rat-kangaroo), and Potorous (potoroos). Historically, their distribution was widespread across Australia, but habitat loss, introduced predators like foxes and cats, and altered fire regimes have led to significant population declines and extinctions for some species.

Potoroids are primarily nocturnal and fossorial, meaning they are active at night and dig for food. Their diet consists mainly of fungi, roots, tubers, seeds, and insects, playing an important role as spore dispersers for mycorrhizal fungi, which are crucial for plant health. They are generally solitary animals, though some may form temporary aggregations.

Reproduction in Potoroidae is similar to other marsupials, with a short gestation period and a underdeveloped young that completes its development in the mother's pouch. The conservation status of many potoroid species is a concern, with several listed as endangered or critically endangered. Efforts are underway to protect remaining populations and their habitats through conservation programs and captive breeding initiatives.