New Giant Kangaroo Species Unearthed by Australian Researchers
April 15, 2024
Flinders University researchers have discovered three new extinct species of giant kangaroo in southern Australia.
The species, named Protemnodon viator, Protemnodon mamkurra, and Protemnodon dawsonae, were identified from complete fossil skeletons.
Study findings suggest these ancient kangaroos had diverse shapes, geographic ranges, and hopping behaviors.
The largest species, Protemnodon viator, could weigh up to 375 pounds and traveled in large groups.
Fossil evidence indicates these kangaroos adapted to various habitats, from deserts to forested mountains.
Lead paleontologist Isaac Kerr is planning further excavations in Papua New Guinea to study Protemnodon's regional presence.
The research aims to shed light on the extinct Protemnodon species and the evolutionary response of giant kangaroos to environmental changes.
Summary based on 8 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Apr 14, 2024
Giant fossil kangaroos: scientists identify three new species of extinct megafauna
Yahoo News • Apr 15, 2024
Scientists identify three new species of ancient kangaroo—and one was more than 6.6 feet tall
Phys.org • Apr 14, 2024
Digging up new species of Australia and New Guinea's giant fossil kangaroos