Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgments
Contents
About the Editors
List of Reviewers
Contributors
Abbreviations
Part I: Introduction
1 American and Australasian Marsupials: An Introduction
Introduction
A Brief History of Research on American Marsupials
Origin, Evolution, and Diversification of the New World Marsupials
A Brief History of Research on Australasian Marsupials
Marsupial Studies Pre-1973
Marsupial Studies from 1973
Origin, Evolution, and Diversification of Australasian Marsupials
Cross-References
References
Part II: Evolution and Diversification
2 Diversity and Phylogeny of Marsupials and Their Stem Relatives (Metatheria)
Introduction
Phylogenetic Definitions
The Earliest Metatherians and the Timing of the Metatheria-Eutheria Split
Deltatheroida
Late Cretaceous Marsupialiforms
Cenozoic Laurasian Marsupialiforms
Earliest Southern Hemisphere Marsupialiforms and the Age of Marsupialia
Sparassodonta
Polydolopimorphia
Paucituberculata
Didelphimorphia
Australidelphia
Microbiotheria
Diprotodontia
Dasyuromorphia
Notoryctemorphia
Peramelemorphia
Yalkaparidontia
Summary and Prospectus
Cross-References
References
3 Taxonomy and Diversity of Living American Marsupials
Introduction
Order Microbiotheria Ameghino, 1889
Order Paucituberculata Ameghino, 1894
Order Didelphimorphia Gill, 1872
The Splitting of Marmosa Gray, 1821
The Splitting of Gracilinanus Gardner and Creighton, 1989
The Splitting of Monodelphis Burnett, 1830
Species Diversity in Caluromyinae Reig, Kirsh, and Marshall, 1987
Species Diversity in Large Didelphidae Gray, 1821
Discussion
Cross-References
References
4 Taxonomic Checklist of Living American Marsupials
Introduction
Methodology
Checklist of Living American Marsupials
Glironia venusta Thomas, 1912
Caluromys derbianus (Waterhouse, 1841)
Caluromys lanatus (Olfers, 1818)
Caluromys philander (Linnaeus, 1758)
Caluromysiops irrupta Sanborn, 1951
Hyladelphys kalinowskii (Hershkovitz, 1992)
Chironectes minimus (Zimmermann, 1780)
Didelphis albiventris Lund, 1840
Didelphis aurita Wied-Neuwied, 1826
Didelphis imperfecta Mondolfi and Pérez-Hernndez, 1984
Didelphis marsupialis Linnaeus, 1758
Didelphis pernigra Allen, 1900
Didelphis virginiana Kerr, 1792
Lutreolina crassicaudata (Desmarest, 1804)
Lutreolina massoia Martínez-Lanfranco, Flores, Jayat, and D´Elía, 2014
Philander andersoni (Osgood, 1913)
Philander canus (Osgood, 1913)
Philander deltae Lew, Pérez-Hernndez, and Ventura, 2006
Philander mcilhennyi Gardner and Patton, 1972
Philander melanurus (Thomas, 1899)
Philander nigratus (Thomas, 1923)
Philander opossum (Linnaeus, 1758)
Philander pebas Voss, Díaz-Nieto, and Jansa, 2018
Philander quica (Temminck, 1824)
Philander vossi Gardner and Ramírez-Pulido, 2020
Metachirus myosuros (Temminck, 1824)
Metachirus nudicaudatus (É. Geoffroy, 1803)
Marmosa adleri Voss, Giarla, and Jansa, 2021
Marmosa alstoni (J. A. Allen, 1900)
Marmosa andersoni Pine, 1972
Marmosa constantiae Thomas, 1904
Marmosa demerarae Thomas, 1905
Marmosa germana Thomas, 1904
Marmosa isthmica Goldman, 1912
Marmosa jansae Voss and Giarla, 2021
Marmosa lepida (Thomas, 1888)
Marmosa macrotarsus (Wagner, 1842)
Marmosa mexicana Merriam, 1897
Marmosa murina (Linnaeus, 1758)
Marmosa nicaraguae Thomas, 1905
Marmosa paraguayana Tate, 1931
Marmosa parda Tate, 1931
Marmosa perplexa Anthony, 1922
Marmosa phaea Thomas, 1899
Marmosa rapposa Thomas, 1899
Marmosa robinsoni Bangs, 1898
Marmosa rubra Tate, 1931
Marmosa rutteri Thomas, 1924
Marmosa simonsi Thomas, 1899
Marmosa tyleriana Tate, 1931
Marmosa waterhousei (Tomes, 1860)
Marmosa xerophila Handley and Gordon, 1979
Marmosa zeledoni Goldman, 1911
Monodelphis adusta (Thomas, 1897)
Monodelphis americana (Müller, 1776)
Monodelphis arlindoi Pavan, Rossi, and Schneider, 2012
Monodelphis brevicaudata (Erxleben, 1777)
Monodelphis dimidiata (Wagner, 1847)
Monodelphis domestica (Wagner, 1842)
Monodelphis emiliae (Thomas, 1912)
Monodelphis gardneri Solari, Pacheco, Vivar, and Emmons, 2012
Monodelphis glirina (Wagner, 1842)
Monodelphis handleyi Solari, 2007
Monodelphis iheringi (Thomas, 1888)
Monodelphis kunsi Pine, 1975
Monodelphis osgoodi Doutt, 1938
Monodelphis palliolata (Osgood, 1914)
Monodelphis peruviana (Osgood, 1913)
Monodelphis pinocchio Pavan, 2015
Monodelphis reigi Lew and Pérez-Hernndez, 2004
Monodelphis ronaldi Solari, 2004
Monodelphis saci Pavan, Mendes-Oliveira, and Voss, 2017
Monodelphis sanctaerosae Voss, Pine, and Solari, 2012
Monodelphis scalops (Thomas, 1888)
Monodelphis touan (Shaw, 1800)
Monodelphis unistriata (Wagner, 1842)
Monodelphis vossi Pavan, 2019
Tlacuatzin balsasensis Arcangeli, Light, and Cervantes, 2018
Tlacuatzin canescens (Allen, 1893)
Tlacuatzin gaumeri (Osgood, 1913)
Tlacuatzin insularis (Merriam, 1898)
Tlacuatzin sinaloae (Allen, 1898)
Chacodelphys formosa (Shamel, 1930)
Cryptonanus agricolai (Moojen, 1943)
Cryptonanus chacoensis (Tate, 1931)
Cryptonanus guahybae (Tate, 1931)
Cryptonanus unduaviensis (Tate, 1931)
Gracilinanus aceramarcae (Tate, 1931)
Gracilinanus agilis (Burmeister, 1854)
Gracilinanus dryas (Thomas, 1898)
Gracilinanus emiliae (Thomas, 1909)
Gracilinanus marica (O. Thomas, 1898)
Gracilinanus microtarsus (Wagner, 1842)
Gracilinanus peruanus (Tate, 1931)
Lestodelphys halli (Thomas, 1921)
Marmosops bishopi (Pine, 1981)
Marmosops carri (Allen and Chapman, 1897)
Marmosops caucae (Thomas, 1900)
Marmosops chucha Díaz-Nieto and Voss, 2016
Marmosops creightoni Voss, Tarifa, and Yensen, 2004
Marmosops fuscatus (Thomas, 1896)
Marmosops handleyi (Pine, 1981)
Marmosops incanus (Lund, 1840)
Marmosops invictus (Goldman, 1912)
Marmosops juninensis (Tate, 1931)
Marmosops magdalenae Díaz-Nieto and Voss, 2016
Marmosops marina Ferreira, Oliveira, Lima-Silva, and Rossi, 2020
Marmosops noctivagus (Tschudi, 1845)
Marmosops ocellatus (Tate, 1931)
Marmosops ojastii García, Snchez-Hernndez, and Semedo, 2014
Marmosops pakaraimae Voss, Lim, Díaz-Nieto, and Jansa, 2013
Marmosops parvidens (Tate, 1931)
Marmosops paulensis (Tate, 1931)
Marmosops pinheiroi (Pine, 1981)
Marmosops soinii Voss, Fleck, and Jansa, 2019
Marmosops woodalli (Pine, 1981)
Thylamys bruchi (Thomas, 1921)
Thylamys citellus (Thomas, 1912)
Thylamys elegans (Waterhouse, 1839)
Thylamys karimii (Petter, 1968)
Thylamys macrurus (Olfers, 1818)
Thylamys pallidior (Thomas, 1902)
Thylamys pusillus (Desmarest, 1804)
Thylamys sponsorius (Thomas, 1921)
Thylamys tatei (Handley, 1957)
Thylamys velutinus (Wagner, 1842)
Thylamys venustus (Thomas, 1902)
Dromiciops bozinovici D´Elía, Hurtado, and D´Anatro, 2016
Dromiciops gliroides Thomas, 1894
Dromiciops mondaca D´Elía, Hurtado, and D´Anatro, 2016
Caenolestes caniventer Anthony, 1921
Caenolestes condorensis Albuja and Patterson, 1996
Caenolestes convelatus Anthony, 1924
Caenolestes fuliginosus (Tomes, 1863)
Caenolestes sangay Ojala-Barbour, Pinto, Brito, Albuja, Lee, and Patterson, 2013
Lestoros inca (Thomas, 1917)
Rhyncholestes raphanurus Osgood, 1924
Comments on American Marsupial Diversity
Cross-References
References
5 Taxonomy and Diversity of Living Australasian Marsupials
Introduction
Order Dasyuromorphia Gill, 1872
Species Diversity Within the Subfamily Dasyurinae Goldfuss, 1820
Species Diversity Within the Subfamily Phascogalinae Gill, 1872
Species Diversity Within the Subfamily Planigalinae Archer, 1982
Species Diversity Within the Subfamily Sminthopsinae Archer, 1982
Family Myrmecobiidae Waterhouse, 1841
Family Thylacinidae Bonaparte, 1838
Order Notoryctemorphia Kirsch, 1977
Order Peramelemorphia Ameghino, 1889
Species Diversity Within the Family Chaeropodidae Gill, 1872
Species Diversity Within the Family Peroryctidae Groves and Flannery, 1990
Species Diversity Within the Family Peramelidae J.E. Gray, 1825a
Species Diversity Within the Family Thylacomyidae Bensley, 1903
Order Diprotodontia Owen, 1877
Suborder Vombatiformes Burnett, 1830
Suborder Phalangerida Aplin and Archer, 1987
Species Diversity Within the Family Burramyidae Broom, 1898
Species Diversity Within the Family Petauridae Bonaparte, 1832
Species Diversity Within the Family Pseudocheiridae Winge, 1893
Species Diversity Within the Family Tarsipedidae Gervais and Verreaux, 1842
Species Diversity Within the Family Acrobatidae Aplin (Aplin and Archer), 1987
Species Diversity Within the Family Phalangeridae Thomas, 1888
Suborder Macropodiformes Ameghino, 1889
Species Diversity Within the Family Hypsiprymnodontidae Collett, 1887
Species Diversity Within the Family Potoroidae J.E. Gray, 1821
Species Diversity Within the Family Macropodidae J.E. Gray, 1821
Discussion
Australasian Marsupial Taxonomy
Australasian Marsupial Diversity and Endemism
Diversity and Endemism in Australia
Diversity and Endemism in New Guinea
Diversity and Endemism in Wallacea
Conclusions and Future Directions
Cross-References
References
6 Cenozoic Metatherian Evolution in the Americas
Introduction
The Laurasian Record: A Summary
Contexts
Metatherian Physiology
Caribbean Tectonics by the Late Cretaceous
Climate
Ecosystem Evolution
Biogeography
Phases in South American Mammalian Evolution
Metatherian Radiations in South America and Australasia
Metatherian Evolution in the Americas
North America and the KTR
South America and the EECO
Cenozoic Diversity of South American Metatherians
A Pattern in the Evolution of South American Metatherians
Red Queen or Court Jester?
Cross-References
References
7 Paleogene Metatherians from the Itaboraí Basin: Diversity and Affinities
Introduction and Historical Background
Methodological Approach
Taxonomy and Specimens
Dietary Inferences
Image Acquisition
Applied Terminology
Petrosal Reassessment Analysis
Taxonomic Concept
``North American´´ Metatherian Groups in the Itaboraí Fauna
Austropediomys: A Pediomyoid in South America?
Eobrasilia: A Probable Brazilian Stagodontid and the Diversity of Durophagous Metatherians from Itaboraí
Zeusdelphys: A Very Large, Enigmatic Metatherian from the Itaboraí Fauna
The Itaboraí Fauna Confirms the Occurrence of ``North American Peradectoids´´ During the Early Eocene in South America
The Diversification of Bunodont Metatherians in South America and the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM)
Early Eocene Faunas from South America After the PETM
A Reassessment of Bunodont Metatherians from the Itaboraí Basin
Sparassodonts from the Itaboraí Fauna Support an Early Occupation of the Hypercarnivorous Mammalian Ecological Niche in South ...
The Itaboraí Fauna Has Preserved the Most Diverse Fauna of Tiny Insectivorous Metatherians of South America
Polydolopimorphians from Itaboraí Fauna Help to Elucidate the Evolution and Affinities of These Eocene Faunal Dominant Metathe...
``Herpetotheriid-Like´´ Taxa from the Itaboraí Fauna
Didelphimorphians from the Itaboraí Fauna, A Response to the Paleoclimatic Events of the PETM
Did Paucituberculatans and Australidelphians Exist in the Itaboraí Fauna? A Brief Review
A Reassessment of the Isolated Petrosals from Itaboraí: New Data for the Evolutionary History of South American Metatherians
Conclusions and Future Perspectives
Cross-References
References
8 Molecular Evolution in Australasian Marsupials
Introduction
Evolution Across the Genome
Chromosomes
Sex Chromosomes
Non-coding Regions
Coding Regions
Epigenome
Molecular Phylogenetics of Australasian Marsupials
Phylogenetic Analyses of Molecular Data
Molecular Dating
Marsupial Genome Sequencing
Population Genetics, Phylogeography, and Conservation Genetics
Molecular Evolution of Australidelphia Looking Forward
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
9 Postweaning Skull Growth in Living American and Australasian Marsupials: Allometry and Evolution
Introduction
Materials and Methods
Sample and Measurements
Multivariate Allometry
Phylogenetic Framework
Phylogenetic Analyses
Results
Multivariate Allometric Trends
Character Optimization and Phylogenetic Signal
Discussion
Cranial Length and Width in the Postweaning Growth of the Marsupial Skull
Growth of the Rostrum
Growth of the Neurocranium and Relation with the Trophic Apparatus
Growth of Toothrows
Mandible
Evolution of the Allometric Skull Growth
Cross-References
References
10 Function and Constraint in the Marsupial Postcranium
Introduction
Climbs, Constraints, and Evo-Devo
Marsupial Postcranial Development
Marsupial Limb Evo-Devo and the Constraints Discourse
Postcranial Function and Adaptation: The Case of Australian Marsupials
Generalized Quadrupedal Terrestrial Locomotion
Arboreality and Scansoriality
Gliding
Fossoriality and Semi-fossoriality
Saltatorial
Conservation
Methods of Investigation for Postcranial Adaptations
Looking into the Past
Conclusions
Cross-References
References
11 Skull Morphological Evolution in Faunivorous Marsupials
Introduction
Materials and Methods
Results
Morphological Variation Description
Size Component
Shape Component
Discussion
References
12 Marsupial Functional Morphology, Biomechanics, and Feeding Ecology
Introduction
Lever Mechanics and Beam Theory
Lever Mechanics
Beam Theory
Finite Element Analysis
Morphometrics-Based Analysis of Feeding Ecology
Analyses Integrating Geometric Morphometric and FEA Approaches
Cross-References
References
13 Morphology, Form, and Function in Didelphid Marsupials
Introduction
Teeth Form and Function
Cranial Skeleton Form and Function
Postcranial Skeleton and Locomotion
Cranial Muscles and Mastication
Body Myology and Locomotion
Digestive System Form and Function
Reproductive System Form and Function
Conclusions and Future Directions
Cross-References
References
14 Hair Microstructure Diversity in Neotropical Marsupials: Roles of Phylogenetic Signal and Adaptation
Introduction
Material and Methods
Characterization of Guard Hair Microstructure
Data Acquisition
Statistical Analyses
Results
Discussion
Hair Microstructural Traits and Phylogenetic Signal
Hair Microstructure Relationships with Ecological Predictors
Cross-References
References
15 Short-Tailed Opossums Genus Monodelphis: Patterns of Phenotypic Evolution and Diversification
Introduction
The Evolution of Pelage Color Patterns in Monodelphis
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Diversification in Monodelphis
Cross-References
References
16 Patterns of Phenotypic Evolution and Diversification in Antechinus
Taxonomic History of Dasyurids and Diversification within Antechinus, Including Taxonomic Growth in the Last Decade
Biogeographical History
Morphological Diversity and Ecological Niche
Semelparity and Timing of Breeding
Olfactory Diversity
Conclusion and Conservation Implications
Best Practice Methods for Antechinus Conservation
Cross-References
References
Part III: Biogeography
17 Trait Variation in American Marsupials Based on Biological Rules
Introduction
Ecogeographic Rules
Bergmann´s Rule
Resource Rule
Allen´s Rule
Gloger´s Rule
Island Rule
Interspecific Competition
Sexual Dimorphism
Allometry
Static Allometry
Ontogenetic Allometry
Evolutionary Allometry
The Evolution of Traits
Cope´s Rule
Conclusion
Cross-References
References
18 Age-Area Relationships in American Marsupials: A Macroevolutionary Approach
Introduction
Materials and Methods
Species Distribution Modelling
Statistical Analyses
Results
Discussion
Cross-References
References
19 Species Richness and Beta Diversity Patterns of American Marsupials
Introduction
Methods
Species Richness
Compositional Dissimilarity
Results
Species Richness
Compositional Dissimilarity
Discussion
Species Richness
Compositional Dissimilarity
Conclusion
Cross-References
References
20 Diversification of South American Didelphid Marsupials
Introduction
Methods
Results
Discussion
Didelphis
Gracilinanus
Marmosa (Micoureus)
Marmosops
Metachirus
Monodelphis
Philander
Thylamys
Marsupial Lineages and Geographic Patterns
Conclusions
Cross-References
References
21 Marsupials in the Guiana Region (Northeastern Amazonia): Diversity and Endemism
Introduction
Marsupials (Opossums) Occurring in the Guiana Region: An Overview
Caluromys (Woolly Opossums)
Chironectes minimus (Water Opossum)
Cryptonanus Sp. (Dwarf Opossum)
Didelphis (Common Large Opossums)
Glironia venusta (Bushy-Tailed Opossum)
Gracilinanus emiliae (Emilia´s Gracile Opossum)
Hyladelphys kalinowskii (Kalinowski´s Gracile Opossum)
Lutreolina crassicaudata (Lutrine Opossum)
Marmosa (Mouse Opossums)
Marmosops (Slender Mouse-Opossums)
Metachirus nudicaudatus (Brown Four-Eyed Opossum or Pouchless Four-Eyed Opossum)
Genus Monodelphis (Short-Tailed Opossums)
Genus Philander (Gray Four-Eyed Opossums)
Abundance of Opossums in Forested Habitats
The Three Small Reddish-Brown Opossums in French Guiana
Opossums in Savannas: The Generous Contribution of the Barn Owl
Opossums in Isolated Inselbergs and Elevated Rocky Outcrops
Endemism of Didelphidae in the Guianan Shield
Cross-References
References
22 Marsupials from the South American ``Dry Diagonal´´: Diversity, Endemism, and Biogeographic History
Introduction
The South American ``Dry Diagonal´´
The ``Dry Diagonal´´ Didelphid Fauna
Species Richness, Composition, and Endemism
Biogeographic History
Evolutionary History of Open Formations and Their Fauna
Future Prospects
Cross-References
References
23 Species Richness and Endemism of Marsupials in the Atlantic Forest: Spatial Patterns and Drivers
Introduction
Materials and Methods
Study Area
Species Distribution Maps and Diversity Measures
Explanatory Variables
Data Analysis
Identification of Marsupial Hotspots
Results
Discussion
Conclusion
Cross-References
References
24 Diversity and Endemism of the Marsupials of Australia´s Top End and Kimberley
Introduction
Australia´s Tropical Savannas
Savanna Disturbances: The Role of Herbivory and Fire
Biogeographic Barriers
Regional Definition
The Marsupials of Australia´s Top End and Kimberley Region
Carnivorous Marsupials
Digging Marsupials
Climbing Marsupials
Hopping Marsupials
Families Not Represented in the Region
Threats to Contemporary Diversity
Future Research and Conservation
Cross-References
References
25 Diversity and Endemism of the Marsupials of Australia´s North-Eastern Tropics
Introduction
Australia´s North-Eastern Tropics
Wet Tropics
Cape York Peninsula
Biogeographic Barriers
Sampling Biases
The Marsupial Fauna
Diversity
Regional Endemism
Biogeography
New Guinea Connections
Australian Context
Rarity in the Tropics
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
26 Diversity and Endemism of the Marsupials of Australia´s Arid Zone
Australia as an Arid Continent
Evolution of Australia´s Arid Zone
Marsupial Responses to Environmental Conditions in Arid Environments
Activity Patterns
Burrows, Soil Cracks, and Rock Shelters
Subterranean Life
Behavioral Control of Temperature
Water from Food and Concentrated Urine
Torpor
Summary of the Arid-Dwelling Marsupial Fauna
Order-by-Order Description of Diversity and Endemicity
Dasyuromorphia
Peramelemorphia
Notoryctemorphia
Diprotodontia
Marsupial Assemblages
Assemblages of Dasyurid Marsupials
Indigenous Interactions
Conservation Perspectives
Overview
Factors Influencing Conservation Status: Current
Factors Influencing Conservation Status: Future
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
27 Marsupials of Australia´s Temperate and Subtropical Forests, Woodlands and Heathlands
Introduction
Diversity, Barriers, and Endemism
Historical Declines
Simultaneous Declines Due to Recent Multiple Impacts
Simultaneous Declines Due to Long-Term Human Footprint
Relictual Niches Resulting from Widespread Threatening Factors
Isolation Slows but Does Not Eliminate Declines
Management Stems Loss and Improves Retention of Marsupial Species
Changing Climate
Bioclimatic Niche and Susceptibility
Species Affected by Temperature Changes
Southern Greater Glider
Western Ring-Tailed Possum
Species Affected by Declining Rainfall
Swamp Antechinus
Eastern Quoll
Fire Impacts
Megafires
Priorities for Conserving Diversity of Australia´s Temperate and Sub-Tropical Marsupials
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
Part IV: Ecology and Conservation
28 Population Dynamics of Neotropical Marsupials
Introduction
Life-History Strategies and Population Dynamics
Population Growth, Reproduction, and Population Density
Limiting Factors and Population Regulation
Metapopulation Dynamics
Animal Movements and Spatial Dynamics
Examples of Studies
Demography and Population Modeling
Applications and Perspectives
Cross-References
References
29 Semelparous Reproductive Strategy in New World Marsupials
Introduction
Semelparity in Marsupials
General Patterns of Marsupial Semelparity
Origins of Semelparity in Marsupials
Life-History Strategies
Semelparity in Didelphids
Monodelphis
Marmosa
Didelphis
Marmosops
Gracilinanus
Thylamys
Future Directions for Studies on Didelphid Marsupials
Cross-References
References
30 Reproductive Strategies and Biology of the Australasian Marsupials
Introduction: What Makes a Marsupial a Marsupial?
Reproductive Physiology of Australasian Marsupials
Female Anatomy
Male Anatomy
Reproductive Strategies of Australasian Marsupials - An Overview
Seasonality, Estrus, and Mating
Gestation and Birth
Lactation
Weaning and Sexual Maturity
Australasian Marsupial Reproductive Behaviors
Social Behavior and Care of Young
Communication
Copulation
Nesting
Reproduction by Order
Order Peramelemorphia - Bold and Beautiful Bandicoots and Bilbies
Order Diprotodontia - A Wealth of Diversity from Wallabies and Possums, to Koalas and Wombats
Suborder Macropodiformes
Suborder Phalangeriformes
Suborder Vombatiformes
Order Dasyuromorphia - The Predators with Pouches
Order Notoryctemorphia - Mysterious Marsupial Moles
Reproduction for Conservation
Conclusion
Cross-References
References
31 Positional Behavior and Locomotor Performance of American Marsupials: Links with Habitat and Substrate Use
Introduction
Challenges Posed by Terrestrial and Arboreal Habitats to Moving Organisms
Positional Behavior
Performance Measurements Relevant to Habitat Use
Studies on Locomotor Performance with New World Marsupials
Performance Measurements as Aspects of the Fundamental Niche
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
32 Movement, Habitat Selection, and Home Range of American Marsupials
Introduction
How and Why Do Marsupials Move?
Effects of Intrinsic Drivers on Movement Patterns of Search and Traveling
Habitat Selection
Vertical Movements
The Home Range of Marsupials
Home Range Exploration
Resource Availability and Home Range
Effects of Body Size and Sexual Dimorphism on Home Range
Scaling of Movements with Body Mass
Density-Dependent Effects on Daily Home Range and Path Tortuosity
Daily Home Range in Fragmented Landscapes
A Special Case: Home Range in the Semiaquatic Chironectes minimus
Is There Territoriality in Marsupial Life?
The Territorial Female
Social System Based on the Use of Space and Territoriality
Conclusions and Future Directions
Cross-References
References
33 Movement Patterns, Home Range and Habitat Selection of Australasian Marsupials
Introduction
Coverage of Australasian Marsupials
Movement Patterns: Use of Shelters
Movement Patterns: Foraging and Mating
Home Range Behavior
Habitat Selection
Microhabitat Scale
Macrohabitat (Home Range Scale)
Landscape Scale
Discussion
Movement Among Shelters
Movement Distances per Night
Home Range Behavior
Habitat Selection
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
34 Food Habits of American Marsupials
Introduction
Study Methods
Individual Variation in Resource Use
Natural Diet
Microbiotheriidae
Caenolestidae
Didelphidae
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
35 Marsupials in a Neotropical Savanna: Diet Variation and Seasonal Patterns
Introduction
General Dietary Patterns
Diet Within Feeding Guilds
Frugivorous-Omnivorous
Insectivorous-Omnivorous and Carnivorous
The Role of Intrinsic Factors
Morphology and Feeding Patterns
Intraspecific Patterns of Resource Selection
Patterns of Resource Selection by the Species
The Role of Extrinsic Factors
Dietary Patterns Across Distinct Vegetation Formations
Trophic Niche Patterns and Seasonality
Interspecific Competition
Final Considerations
Cross-References
References
36 Food Habits and Activity Patterns of Australasian Marsupials
Introduction
Importance of Studying the Food Habits of Australasian Marsupials
Techniques for Studying the Food Habits of Australasian Marsupials
Observational Approaches
Stomach Contents Analysis
Fecal Analysis
Field Experiments
DNA Metabarcoding/eDNA
Stable Isotope Analysis
Tracers
Other Considerations
Overview of Feeding Habits of Australasian Marsupials
Dasyuromorphia
Notoryctemorphia
Peramelemorphia
Diprotodontia
Importance of Studying the Activity Patterns of Australasian Marsupials
Techniques for Studying the Activity Patterns of Australasian Marsupials
Early Observations
Contemporary Observations
Overview of the Activity Patterns of Australasian Marsupials
Dasyuromorphia
Notoryctemorphia
Peramelemorphia
Diprotodontia
Factors that Affect Activity Patterns
Factors that Affect Daytime Activity
Factors that Affect Nighttime Activity
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
37 Activity Patterns of American Marsupials
Introduction
Activity Patterns of New World Marsupials: An Ecological Approach
Diel Activity Pattern and Distribution of Activity of New World Marsupials
Factors Affecting Marsupial Activity
Conclusion and Future Directions
Cross-References
References
38 Daily Torpor, Hibernation, and Heterothermy in Marsupials
Introduction
American Marsupials
Didelphimorphia: Opossums
Paucituberculata: Shrew Opossums
Microbiotheria: Monito del Monte
Australasian Marsupials
Dasyuromorphia: Insectivorous/Carnivorous Marsupials
Notoryctemorphia: Marsupial Moles
Diprotodontia: Possums
Heterothermy in Large Marsupials
How Many Marsupials Express Torpor?
Ecological Aspects of Torpor
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
39 Energy and Water Balance of Marsupials
Introduction
Body Temperature
Insulation and Conductance
Environmental Impacts on Thermoregulation
Energetics
Basal Metabolic Rate
Thermogenesis
Field Metabolic Rate
Locomotion
Maximum Metabolic Rate
Reproduction
Water Balance
Evaporative Water Loss
Relative Water Economy
Urine and Feces
Field Water Turnover
Conservation Physiology
Conclusions
Cross-References
References
40 Conservation Biogeography of Living American Marsupials: Didelphimorphia, Microbiotheria, and Paucituberculata
Introduction
Distribution Patterns: From Dots to Species Distribution Modeling
Distribution Patterns in the Twenty-First Century: Grids and Richness
Climatic Constraints: Why Are They Where They Are?
Conservation: Red List Status and Categories
Conservation: Where Are American Marsupial ``Hotspots´´?
Conclusions and Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
41 Conservation Biogeography of Modern Species of Australasian Marsupials
Introduction
Australian Marsupials
Diversity and Distributions
Extinctions
Declines
Threatened Species
Data Deficiency
Islands
Small-Range Endemics
Refuges
Conservation Actions
Increasers, Sustainable Use, and Introductions
Comparisons with Australian Rodents
Marsupial Species of Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, the Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste
Diversity and Distributions
Extinctions
Declines
Threatened Species
Data Deficiency
Islands
Small-Range Endemics
Threats
Conservation Actions
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
42 Impact of Habitat Loss and Fragmentation in Assemblages, Populations, and Individuals of American Marsupials
Introduction
Effects on Assemblages
General Effects of Habitat Loss, and Habitat Fragmentation per se
Positive or Negative Effects of Habitat Fragmentation per se?
Thresholds of Habitat Amount and Regime Shifts
Disturbances Created by Habitat Fagmentation and Their Effects
Effects on Populations and Individuals
Population Persistence in Landscapes
Genetic Diversity and Structure of Populations
Reproduction
Diet
Habitat Selection and Additional Effects of Wildfires and Logging
Body Condition
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
43 Impact of Habitat Loss and Fragmentation in Didelphid Marsupials of the Atlantic Forest
Introduction
Methods
Dataset
Landscape
Marsupial Functional Traits
Analyses
Results
Discussion
Conclusion and Future Directions
Cross-References
References
44 Impact of Habitat Loss and Fragmentation on Assemblages, Populations, and Individuals of Australasian Marsupials
Introduction
Drivers of Habitat Loss and Habitat Fragmentation
Land Clearing
Tackling Land Clearing as a Driver of Marsupial Decline
Climate Change
Tackling Climate Change as a Driver of Marsupial Decline
Native Forest Logging
Tackling Logging as a Driver of Marsupial Decline
Tree Plantation Development
Tackling Plantation Development as a Driver of Marsupial Decline
Fire
Tackling Altered Fire Regimes as a Driver of Marsupial Decline
Urbanization and Human Infrastructure
Tackling Urbanization and Human Infrastructure as a Driver of Marsupial Decline
Interactions Among Drivers
Tackling Interacting Factors as a Driver of Marsupial Decline
General Discussion
The Impacts of Habitat Loss and Habitat Fragmentation Occur at Multiple Spatial Scales
There Are Temporal Dimensions to the Effects of Habitat Loss and Habitat Fragmentation
The Use of Reintroductions and Translocations to Tackle the Problems of Habitat Loss and Habitat Fragmentation
There Is a Critical Need for Enhanced Conservation Policy and Environmental Regulation
There Is Critical Need for Long-Term Research and Monitoring and Adequate Funding to Support It
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
45 Marsupials and the Coverage Provided by Protected Areas in Brazil
Introduction
Data on Marsupial Species Occurring in Brazil
Data on Location of Protected Areas in Brazil
Marsupial Species Representation in PAs
Cross-References
References
46 Human-Wildlife Interactions in Urban Areas: Case of Didelphis aurita
Introduction
Methods
Study Area
Quantifying Human-D. aurita Interactions and Their Spatial Drivers
Data Analysis
Results
Discussion
Cross-References
References
47 Marsupials in Urban Environments
Introduction
Urban Environments
Urban Stressors on Marsupials
Altered Predator Pressures
Artificial Light and Noise
Roads and Vehicles
Disease and Parasites
Human-Wildlife Conflict
Urban Rewards for Marsupials
Marsupial Success in Urban Environments
Dasyuromorphia in Urban Environments
Peramelemorphia in Urban Environments
Diprotodontia in Urban Environments
Didelphimorphia in Urban Environments
Urban Marsupial Conservation and Management
Conclusion
Cross-References
References
48 Relict Marsupial (Dromiciops) from Southern South American Temperate Rainforests: Threatened by Habitat Loss, Fragmentation...
Introduction
Dromiciops gliroides: Habitat and Ecological Significance
Habitat Loss: the Main Threat to the Persistence of Dromiciops gliroides
Land-Use Changes and More Complex Scenarios
Cascade Effects at the Community Level
An Ancient Marsupial in a Warming World
Final Thoughts and Perspectives
Cross-References
References
49 Multiple Threats Affecting the Marsupials of Australasia: Impacts and Management
Introduction
Marsupials and Multiple Threats
Case Study 1: Multiple Invasive Species
Case Study 2: Climate Change
Case Study 3: Predators, Fire, and Herbivory
Case Study 4: Disease, Nutrition, and Environmental Stresses
Case Study 5: Hunting, Logging, and Road Development
Emerging Issues
Positive Developments
Outstanding Questions and Future Directions
Concluding Remarks
Cross-References
References
50 Novel Conservation Strategies to Conserve Australian Marsupials
Introduction
Context: Australian Marsupial Declines
Physically Separating Marsupials from Introduced Predators: Island and Fenced Havens
Growth in Havens Over Time
Using Apex Predators to Manipulate Ecological Interactions
Dingoes
Tasmanian Devils
Traditional Hunting Practices
Guardian Dogs
Using Prey to Manipulate Ecological Interactions
Managing Habitat to Reduce the Impacts of Predation
Innovation in Toxin Formulation and Delivery to Control Introduced Predators
Synthetic Biology: Disease, Immunocontraception, and Gene Drives
Genetic Management
Managing Small, Isolated Marsupial Populations
Genetic Rescue
Genetic Approaches to Managing Predation
Conclusion
Cross-References
References
Glossary
Index
