description Broad-faced potoroo Overview
The broad-faced potoroo (Potorous platyops) was a small marsupial native to southwestern Australia that is now extinct. Described by naturalist John Gould in 1844, it was characterized by its unusually broad face compared to other potoroos. The species inhabited dense scrubland and heath environments, where it likely fed on fungi, roots, and tubers. The last confirmed specimen was captured in 1875, with its extinction attributed to habitat clearance and predation by introduced species such as foxes and cats.
help Broad-faced potoroo FAQ
What was the broad-faced potoroo?
The broad-faced potoroo, Potorous platyops, was a small marsupial from southwestern Australia. It is now extinct and was notable for having a wider face than other potoroos.
Who described the broad-faced potoroo?
The naturalist John Gould described the species in 1844. Its scientific name is Potorous platyops.
Where did the broad-faced potoroo live?
It lived in dense scrubland in southwestern Australia. That habitat supported the ground-dwelling lifestyle of this small potoroid marsupial.
Why did the broad-faced potoroo become extinct?
The exact sequence of causes is not fully known, but habitat change and introduced predators are commonly considered important pressures. The last confirmed records are historical, so modern population figures do not exist.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
