Two recent studies in the Records of the Australian Museum highlight the stunning rediscovery of two marsupials: the pygmy long-fingered possum and the ring-tailed glider. Both were believed to be extinct for thousands of years and only known from fossils, making this a remarkable find.
These creatures are part of a group called “Lazarus taxa.” This term refers to species thought to be extinct, only to be found alive later. Other famous Lazarus species include the coelacanth and the Wollemi pine.
Professor Tim Flannery, a mammalogist and palaeontologist who led the research, describes the discovery of two Lazarus species as extraordinary.
The pygmy long-fingered possum (Dactylonax kambuayai) has unique, elongated fingers, which make it easy to spot. It was first identified in 1999 through fossils. In 2007, researchers hinted that it might still exist. Then, in 2023, researchers found two specimens that had been mislabelled in a museum collection, confirming its existence.
On the other hand, the ring-tailed glider (Tous ayamaruensis) is related to Australia’s greater gliders. However, researchers determined it belongs to a new genus called Tous, a name inspired by the indigenous Tambrauw and Maybrat peoples, who have known this animal for generations. Rika Korain, a Maybrat woman involved in the research, highlights how important this animal is to their culture, viewing it as a sacred reflection of their ancestral spirits.
This collaboration between scientists and Indigenous communities shows how valuable traditional knowledge can be. The identification process would not have been possible without the insights from local elders.
The rediscovery of these animals is not just a scientific triumph; it also emphasizes the importance of protecting and respecting the knowledge of local communities. As climate change and habitat destruction threaten wildlife, stories like this remind us of what still remains to be discovered and preserved.
In a world where many species are vanishing, witnessing the return of the pygmy long-fingered possum and the ring-tailed glider ignites hope for conservation efforts. It proves that dedicated research and collaboration can yield incredible outcomes, reminding us that nature still has secrets to share.
