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Scientist Discover New Species of ‘Dimpled’ Koala in WA
Researchers say the extinct dimpled koala had a shorter skull, broader teeth and a larger facial muscle for chewing tougher leaves.
- Researchers at the Western Australian Museum identified a new, extinct koala species, Phascolarctos sulcomaxilliaris, which inhabited Western Australia until roughly 28,000 years ago.
- Dr. Kenny Travouillon, Curator of Mammals at the museum, led the study after analyzing fossil skulls donated by the family of late speleologist Lindsay Hatcher.
- Anatomical analysis revealed the 'dimpled koala' possessed a distinct 'grooved maxilla,' or cheek bone, and a shorter, more robust skull compared to modern koalas.
- Climate records indicate a major drying event approximately 28,000 years ago caused the collapse of eucalyptus forests, leading to the species' extinction alongside other animals.
- Understanding how past climate shifts transformed habitats offers a vital lesson for protecting the last living koala species, helping scientists anticipate risks like deforestation and climate change.
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12 Articles
Researchers in Australia have discovered a new, extinct koala species with “large, movable lips.” The find was made after scientists re-examined a fossil skull from Moondyne Cave, a cave in Margaret River, about 300 kilometers south of Perth.
·Kobbegem, Belgium
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left2Leaning Right2Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution43% Center
Bias Distribution
- 43% of the sources are Center
43% Center
L 29%
C 43%
R 28%
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