Aepyprymnus rufescens (Gray, 1837)

Taxonomic Classification

Aepyprymnus rufescens is a species in the family Potoroidae, a group of small to medium marsupials that includes living potoroos (genus Potorous) and bettongs (genus Bettongia). This species is not closely related to other members of the family, and it is the largest extant potoroine species. It is placed in its own monotypic genus, Aepyprymnus.

Fur Texture and Coloration

This species is identifiable by the ruffled, bristly texture of its fur and a reddish-rufous tint to the fur on its upper body. The fur across its back is predominantly grey, with a more visible rufous tinge, and is interspersed with silvery hairs. An indistinct stripe runs along its hip line.

Underpart Coloration

Its underparts are also grey, but paler in shade.

Head and Body Length

The combined head and body length of Aepyprymnus rufescens ranges from 385 to 390 millimetres.

Tail Characteristics

Its tail length ranges from 340 to 390 mm, and the tail is overall grey-brown, sometimes with a white tip.

Ear Characteristics

Its ears are comparatively long, measuring 48 to 57 mm, and have a triangular shape. The outer side of the ears is very dark, the inner side is pink, and the edge of the ears is lined with silver hairs.

Eye Rim

A hairless pink rim surrounds the eye.

Adult Weight

The weight of adults ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 kilograms.

Similar Species Distinction

It can be distinguished from the similar species Bettongia tropica (northern bettong) by several traits: Bettongia tropica lacks shaggy fur with a rufous tinge, has a blackish tail, and does not have the hairless pink eye ring and pointed triangular ears that characterize Aepyprymnus rufescens.

Vocalisations

Vocalisations of Aepyprymnus rufescens include a soft hissing alarm call, a chainsaw-like sound when the animal holds aggressive postures, and regular grunting noises during normal activity.

Current Distribution

The species occurs in coastal and subcoastal regions from Newcastle, New South Wales to Cooktown, Queensland.

Former Distribution

It was formerly found in the Murray River Valley of New South Wales and Victoria.

Breeding Period

Breeding occurs year-round in this species.

Sexual Maturity

Females reach sexual maturity generally at 11 months of age, while males reach maturity between 12 and 13 months. After reaching maturity, females are capable of breeding every three weeks.

Gestation Period

Gestation lasts around 22 to 24 days.

Pouch Development

After birth, young develop in the mother’s pouch for around 16 weeks.

Post-Pouch Development

After leaving the pouch, the joey remains near its mother for an additional 7 weeks while it adjusts to foraging and living independently.