The Route of the Marsupials
We have ended the last stage where South America, Antarctica and Australia were still connected together.
During this period of time, the first marsupials developed on South America. Since then, South America developed a diverse fauna of marsupials and at least one platypus-like monotreme.
So, it seems likely that some of these animals moved to Australia across Antarctica.
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RED ARROW = Route of the Marsupials
Afterwards, Australia separated from Antarctica, carrying on it only marsupials and monotremes. From then on, they had the continent to themselves and, given a wealth of opportunities, these pioneers provided the basis of an enermous evolutionary radiation.
While on South America most marsupial were replaced by the more advanced placental mammals that evolved in the north and moved south, leaving most of the marsupials in Australia.
Page written and maintained by 5E Wong Mei Chi Michi