Microbiotheriidae

The Microbiotheriidae is a family of marsupials that includes only one living species, the monito del monte (Dromiciops gliroides). This small marsupial is found in Chile and Argentina and represents an ancient lineage related to Australian dasyurid marsupials.1

Key characteristics that distinguish the monito del monte from other American opossums include uncrowded lower incisors, a short attachment between the lower jaws, a complete bony capsule around the middle ear, and a cloaca located under the tail. Adults can reach up to 10 inches in length and weigh about 1.7 ounces. They are good climbers and eat insects, invertebrates, and sometimes fruit and small lizards. Females have a small pouch with two pairs of mammary glands and typically have one litter per year.1