Didelphimorphia
Quick Summary
Didelphimorphia is an order of New World marsupials that includes opossums. These mammals are characterized by premature birth, with their young continuing to develop in a pouch. The order comprises over 100 species within the family Didelphidae.12
Species within Didelphimorphia vary in size, from mouse-sized to that of a house cat. They are found throughout Central and South America, with the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) being the only species native to North America north of Mexico.1
Many opossums are omnivorous, consuming insects, small animals, fruits, and plants. Some species have unique adaptations, such as the Virginia opossum's ability to feign death ("playing possum") and a blood protein that neutralizes various poisons. Some short-tailed opossums lack a pouch, and some species are semelparous, reproducing only once in their lifetime.13
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opossumClassificationOrder Didelphimorphia (opossums)103 or more species in 1 family.Family Didelphidae (American opossums)103 or more species in 19 genera found in Central and South America, including the Virginia opossum, which ranges as far north as southern Canada. Many species with unusual adaptations. Subfamily Caluromyinae
Read MoreOrder Didelphimorphia (opossums)103 or more species in 1 family.Family Didelphidae (American opossums)103 or more species in 19 genera found in Central and South America, including the Virginia opossum, which ranges as far north as southern Canada. Many species with unusual adaptations. Subfamily Caluromyinae
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marsupialClassificationOrder Didelphimorphia (opossums)70 or more species in 1 family found in Central and South America, except for the Virginia opossum, which ranges as far north as southern Canada. Many species with unusual adaptations.Family Didelphidae (American opossums)70 or more species in 12 genera.
Read MoreOrder Didelphimorphia (opossums)70 or more species in 1 family found in Central and South America, except for the Virginia opossum, which ranges as far north as southern Canada. Many species with unusual adaptations.Family Didelphidae (American opossums)70 or more species in 12 genera.
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