Kangaroos’ giant ancestor probably able to hop despite 250kg weight, scientists say
Research for first time suggests tendon and bones in heavier species would have made bounding possible
TL;DR
- Giant kangaroos, weighing up to 250kg, may have been capable of hopping.
- Researchers studied fossils of sthenurine, Protemnodon, and giant Macropus species.
- Analysis of the fourth metatarsal bone and achilles tendon strength indicated suitability for hopping.
- Hopping might have been used infrequently or over shorter distances, possibly at slower speeds.
- The study provides a potential understanding of the biology and ecology of extinct giant kangaroos.