Cercartetus nanus (Desmarest, 1817) is a burramyid commonly called the eastern pygmy-possum. It is 1 of 4 species in the genus Cercartetus, which together with Burramys parvus form the marsupial family Burramyidae. This species is endemic to southeastern Australia and occupies a range of vegetation types, but Banksia woodland is probably preferred habitat. This species is notable for its longevity, ability to hibernate, and its likely role as an important pollinator of a range of large-flowered plants. This species is of conservation concern in several Australian states, where it is threatened by habitat loss, inappropriate fire regimes, and introduced predators.
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6 June 2008
Cercartetus nanus (Diprotodontia: Burramyidae)
Jamie M. Harris
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Australia
Burramyidae
eastern pygmy-possum
hibernation
marsupial
pollination