Carpentarian Rock-rat
Zyzomys palatalis
Australia's Threatened Species Category
Endangered
Listed since: 15/02/2019
IUCN's Threatened Species Category
Critically Endangered
Listed since: 5/06/2015
Population trend: Unknown
Other names: Aywalirroomoo
Priority Species? No
The Australian government's Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032 selected over 100 priority species derive from consultation with threatened species experts and the wider community. While all species are important, focusing on a limited number of species can help target effort and resources so that outcomes can be achieved, measured and shared.
Description
The Carpentarian Rock-rat is a small rodent, and as with other rock-rats, is known to lose its tail, fur and skin very easily. The Carpentarian Rock-rat is restricted to isolated rainforest thickets and broad-leaved vegetation on scree slopes in rugged sandstone gorges. Their diet is believed to consist of fruits, seeds and nuts.
Threats
The main threat to the Carpentarian Rock-rat is inappropriate fire regimes and large feral animals, particularly pigs, can damage waterholes and surrounding vegetation.