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Study Guide: Tree-Kangaroos: Biology, Evolution, and Conservation

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Tree-Kangaroos: Biology, Evolution, and Conservation Study Guide

Classification and Taxonomy

The genus *Dendrolagus* encompasses more than twenty recognized species.

Answer: False

Explanation: There are approximately 14 recognized species within the genus *Dendrolagus*, not over twenty.

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Tree-kangaroos are classified within the family Felidae, which also encompasses feline species.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos belong to the family Macropodidae, which includes kangaroos and wallabies, not Felidae (cats).

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The scientific designation for Matschie's tree-kangaroo is *Dendrolagus lumholtzi*.

Answer: False

Explanation: The scientific name for Matschie's tree-kangaroo is *Dendrolagus matschiei*; *Dendrolagus lumholtzi* refers to Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo.

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*Dendrolagus spadix* serves as the scientific nomenclature for the Dingiso.

Answer: False

Explanation: The scientific name for the Dingiso is *Dendrolagus mbaiso*; *Dendrolagus spadix* is the scientific name for the Lowlands tree-kangaroo.

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To which genus do tree-kangaroos belong?

Answer: Dendrolagus

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos are classified within the genus *Dendrolagus*.

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What is the approximate count of recognized species within the tree-kangaroo genus, *Dendrolagus*?

Answer: Approximately 14

Explanation: The genus *Dendrolagus* currently includes approximately 14 recognized species.

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To which taxonomic family do tree-kangaroos belong?

Answer: Macropodidae (Kangaroos and Wallabies)

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos are classified within the family Macropodidae, which is the family of kangaroos and wallabies.

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What is the scientific name for Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo?

Answer: Dendrolagus lumholtzi

Explanation: The scientific name for Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo is *Dendrolagus lumholtzi*.

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The Proserpine rock-wallaby (*Petrogale persephone*), noted for its arboreal tendencies, is scientifically named:

Answer: Petrogale persephone

Explanation: The Proserpine rock-wallaby, which exhibits arboreal tendencies, is scientifically named *Petrogale persephone*.

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According to the source, what is the scientific name for the Lowlands tree-kangaroo?

Answer: Dendrolagus spadix

Explanation: The scientific name for the Lowlands tree-kangaroo is *Dendrolagus spadix*.

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What is the scientific name for the Dingiso?

Answer: Dendrolagus mbaiso

Explanation: The scientific name for the Dingiso is *Dendrolagus mbaiso*.

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What is the scientific name for the Wondiwoi tree-kangaroo?

Answer: Dendrolagus mayri

Explanation: The scientific name for the Wondiwoi tree-kangaroo is *Dendrolagus mayri*.

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The scientific classification places tree-kangaroos within the Order Diprotodontia and the Family:

Answer: Macropodidae

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos belong to the Order Diprotodontia and the Family Macropodidae.

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What is the scientific name for Bennett's tree-kangaroo?

Answer: Dendrolagus bennetianus

Explanation: The scientific name for Bennett's tree-kangaroo is *Dendrolagus bennetianus*.

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Geographic Distribution and Habitat

Tree-kangaroos are found exclusively within the dense rainforests of Australia.

Answer: False

Explanation: While found in northeastern Australia, tree-kangaroos also inhabit the tropical rainforests of New Guinea and nearby islands, indicating they are not exclusively Australian.

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Tree-kangaroos inhabit the tropical rainforests of New Guinea and the Raja Ampat Islands, and are notably absent from Australia.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos are also found in the tropical rainforests of far northeastern Queensland, Australia, in addition to New Guinea and the Raja Ampat Islands.

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All species of tree-kangaroos exclusively reside in high-altitude mountainous terrains.

Answer: False

Explanation: While many species prefer mountainous regions, some, such as the Lowlands tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus spadix*), inhabit lowland rainforests.

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Bennett's tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus bennetianus*) is identified as one of the two tree-kangaroo species indigenous to Australia.

Answer: True

Explanation: Bennett's tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus bennetianus*) is indeed one of the two tree-kangaroo species native to Australia, alongside Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo.

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What are the principal geographical regions inhabited by tree-kangaroos?

Answer: Tropical rainforests of New Guinea and northeastern Australia

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos are primarily found in the tropical rainforests of New Guinea and northeastern Australia.

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Which two tree-kangaroo species are specifically identified as being indigenous to Australia?

Answer: Lumholtz's and Bennett's

Explanation: Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus lumholtzi*) and Bennett's tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus bennetianus*) are the two species native to Australia.

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Arboreal Adaptations

Tree-kangaroos exhibit physical adaptations that render them less suited for arboreal life when compared to terrestrial kangaroos.

Answer: False

Explanation: Conversely, tree-kangaroos possess specialized adaptations, such as curved nails and padded paws, that make them highly suited for arboreal life, distinguishing them from their terrestrial relatives.

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Tree-kangaroos possess shorter hind feet and smooth paws, which facilitates their arboreal locomotion.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos have longer hind feet with curved nails and sponge-like textured paws, adaptations that enhance their grip for climbing, contrary to having shorter, smooth feet.

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How do tree-kangaroos primarily diverge from terrestrial kangaroos in their lifestyle?

Answer: They are adapted for arboreal locomotion (living in trees), unlike their ground-dwelling relatives.

Explanation: The fundamental divergence lies in their lifestyle: tree-kangaroos are adapted for arboreal locomotion, whereas terrestrial kangaroos are ground-dwelling.

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What specific adaptation aids tree-kangaroos in gripping arboreal surfaces during climbing?

Answer: Slightly curved nails and sponge-like texture on paws

Explanation: Slightly curved nails and a sponge-like texture on their paws and soles enhance grip on tree surfaces.

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How do tree-kangaroos typically ascend trees?

Answer: By using their forelimbs to grip and their hind legs to hop upwards.

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos ascend trees by wrapping their forelimbs around the trunk and using their hind legs to hop upwards.

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What adaptation contributes significantly to a tree-kangaroo's balance while navigating arboreal environments?

Answer: A longer, more pendulous tail

Explanation: The long, pendulous tail of tree-kangaroos serves as a crucial adaptation for maintaining balance during arboreal movement.

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What physical characteristic aids tree-kangaroos in gripping tree trunks?

Answer: Slightly curved nails and sponge-like texture

Explanation: Slightly curved nails and a sponge-like texture on their paws provide the necessary grip for climbing tree trunks.

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What is the primary function of a tree-kangaroo's long, pendulous tail?

Answer: To aid in balance while climbing and moving in trees

Explanation: The long, pendulous tail is crucial for maintaining balance during arboreal locomotion.

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Ecology and Behavior

Tree-kangaroos employ sweating as their principal mechanism for thermoregulation in elevated ambient temperatures.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos do not primarily use sweating for cooling; instead, they lick their forearms, utilizing evaporative cooling.

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Tree-kangaroos demonstrate agility in arboreal environments but exhibit slow and awkward locomotion on terrestrial surfaces.

Answer: True

Explanation: This statement accurately describes tree-kangaroo locomotion: agile climbers in trees, yet slow and clumsy on the ground.

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The dietary intake of tree-kangaroos is exclusively composed of leaves.

Answer: False

Explanation: While leaves are a primary component, tree-kangaroos also consume fruits, grains, flowers, nuts, sap, and tree bark.

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Tree-kangaroos adhere strictly to herbivory, never ingesting animal matter.

Answer: False

Explanation: Although primarily herbivorous, some captive tree-kangaroos have been observed to consume animal matter such as eggs, birds, and snakes.

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Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus lumholtzi*) can attain a combined body and head length of up to 65 centimeters.

Answer: True

Explanation: The body and head length of Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo typically ranges from 48 to 65 centimeters.

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Tree-kangaroos possess the capability to execute downward leaps of up to 9 meters between arboreal supports.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos are known for their impressive arboreal agility, including downward jumps of up to 9 meters between trees.

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How do tree-kangaroos regulate their body temperature in the absence of sweating?

Answer: By licking their forearms to allow for evaporative cooling

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos utilize licking their forearms as a method of evaporative cooling to regulate body temperature.

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What characteristic defines a tree-kangaroo's locomotion when on the ground?

Answer: Slow and clumsy, with an awkward hop

Explanation: On the ground, tree-kangaroos move slowly and awkwardly, employing an ungainly hopping gait.

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What dietary behavior is suggested for some captive tree-kangaroos within the source material?

Answer: They may exhibit omnivorous behavior, consuming eggs, birds, and snakes.

Explanation: Some captive tree-kangaroos have demonstrated omnivorous tendencies, consuming items such as eggs, birds, and snakes.

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What is the typical weight range for male Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos?

Answer: Between 7.2 kg (16 lb) and 10 kg (22 lb)

Explanation: Male Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos typically weigh between 7.2 kg (16 lb) and 10 kg (22 lb).

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What is the maximum recorded distance a tree-kangaroo can descend via a jump between trees?

Answer: Up to 9 meters (30 feet)

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos are capable of executing downward jumps of up to 9 meters (30 feet) between trees.

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What specific behavior do tree-kangaroos exhibit for thermoregulation?

Answer: Licking forearms

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos engage in licking their forearms as a behavioral adaptation for thermoregulation.

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From what heights can tree-kangaroos reportedly descend to the ground via a jump without sustaining injury?

Answer: Up to 18 meters (59 feet)

Explanation: Tree-kangaroos can reportedly jump to the ground from heights of up to 18 meters (59 feet) without injury.

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Which of the following is not typically considered a component of a tree-kangaroo's diet?

Answer: Insects

Explanation: While tree-kangaroos consume leaves, fruits, flowers, and other plant matter, insects are not typically listed as a dietary component.

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Reproduction and Development

The reproductive behaviors of tree-kangaroos in their natural habitats are extensively documented through comprehensive research.

Answer: False

Explanation: Information on wild tree-kangaroo reproduction is scarce; most data originates from observations of captive individuals.

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Male tree-kangaroos attain sexual maturity at a considerably later age compared to their female counterparts.

Answer: True

Explanation: Females typically reach sexual maturity around age 2, while males mature later, often around 4.6 years of age.

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A juvenile tree-kangaroo undergoes less than six months of development within its maternal pouch.

Answer: False

Explanation: The developmental period within the pouch is typically between 246 to 275 days, which is significantly longer than six months.

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What is the typical age range for achieving sexual maturity in female tree-kangaroos?

Answer: 2 to 3 years

Explanation: Female tree-kangaroos typically reach sexual maturity between the ages of 2 and 3 years.

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What is the typical duration a young tree-kangaroo spends developing within its mother's pouch?

Answer: 246 to 275 days

Explanation: A young tree-kangaroo typically develops inside the mother's pouch for approximately 246 to 275 days.

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What does the source indicate regarding the size of a newborn Matschie's tree-kangaroo joey at birth?

Answer: The size of a human thumbnail

Explanation: A newborn Matschie's tree-kangaroo joey is described as being approximately the size of a human thumbnail at birth.

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Evolutionary History

It is posited that the evolutionary lineage of tree-kangaroos originated from ancestors already possessing adaptations for arboreal existence.

Answer: False

Explanation: Current hypotheses suggest that tree-kangaroos evolved from ground-dwelling ancestors, possibly similar to pademelons, who subsequently adapted to an arboreal lifestyle.

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Periods characterized by climatic drying and cooling are understood to have precipitated rainforest contraction, thereby influencing the evolutionary trajectory of tree-kangaroos.

Answer: True

Explanation: Environmental pressures from climate change, specifically drying and cooling trends, led to rainforest contraction, which is believed to have played a role in the evolution of tree-kangaroos.

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The extinct genus *Bohra* is classified as a modern relative of tree-kangaroos, rather than a potential ancestral form.

Answer: False

Explanation: The extinct genus *Bohra* is considered a potential ancestor of modern tree-kangaroos, not merely a modern relative.

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The extinct species *Dendrolagus noibano* was characterized by a smaller body size compared to the majority of extant tree-kangaroo species.

Answer: False

Explanation: The extinct species *Dendrolagus noibano* is noted for being larger than most currently living tree-kangaroo species.

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Which environmental factor is posited to have influenced the evolutionary divergence of tree-kangaroos from ground-dwelling progenitors?

Answer: Periods of drying and cooling causing rainforest contraction

Explanation: Periods of climatic drying and cooling are suggested to have caused rainforest contraction, influencing the evolutionary path towards arboreal adaptations.

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Which extinct genus is hypothesized to be a potential progenitor of modern tree-kangaroos?

Answer: Bohra

Explanation: The extinct genus *Bohra* is considered a potential ancestral form that may have given rise to modern tree-kangaroos.

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What characteristic is notable about the extinct species *Dendrolagus noibano*?

Answer: It was larger than currently living tree-kangaroo species.

Explanation: The extinct species *Dendrolagus noibano* was notably larger than most extant tree-kangaroo species.

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What does the source propose regarding the evolutionary pathway of tree-kangaroos?

Answer: They evolved from ground-dwelling ancestors, possibly similar to pademelons, who adapted to an arboreal lifestyle.

Explanation: The prevailing hypothesis suggests tree-kangaroos evolved from ground-dwelling ancestors that adapted to an arboreal lifestyle.

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Conservation Status and Threats

All species of tree-kangaroos are currently classified as threatened, primarily owing to human-induced hunting and extensive habitat loss.

Answer: True

Explanation: The conservation status of all tree-kangaroo species is indeed threatened, with hunting and habitat destruction being the principal contributing factors.

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Logging and agricultural expansion are considered minor contributors to the decline of tree-kangaroo populations.

Answer: False

Explanation: Logging and agricultural expansion are major drivers of habitat loss and are considered significant threats to tree-kangaroo populations, not minor ones.

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Vehicle collisions and canine predation are identified as significant mortality factors for certain tree-kangaroo species.

Answer: True

Explanation: Studies indicate that vehicle collisions and attacks by domestic dogs are indeed significant causes of death for some tree-kangaroo populations.

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What is the primary factor cited for the threatened conservation status of all tree-kangaroo species?

Answer: Hunting by humans and widespread habitat destruction

Explanation: The primary reasons for the threatened status of all tree-kangaroo species are hunting by humans and extensive habitat destruction.

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In addition to habitat loss from logging and agriculture, what is another significant threat impacting tree-kangaroos?

Answer: Hunting by local communities

Explanation: Hunting by local communities represents a significant threat to tree-kangaroos, alongside habitat loss.

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Which of the following is not identified as a primary threat to tree-kangaroos within the provided information?

Answer: Climate change leading to extreme temperatures

Explanation: While habitat loss and hunting are primary threats, climate change leading to extreme temperatures is not listed as a primary threat in the provided source material.

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Which of the following is cited as a potential cause of mortality for Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo in relevant studies?

Answer: Vehicle collisions

Explanation: Studies have identified vehicle collisions as a potential cause of death for Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo.

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Notable Species, Events, and Captive Management

Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus lumholtzi*) and Doria's tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus dorianus*) are cited as examples of recognized species within the genus.

Answer: True

Explanation: Both Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus lumholtzi*) and Doria's tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus dorianus*) are indeed recognized species within the *Dendrolagus* genus.

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The Wondiwoi tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus mayri*) was declared extinct in 2018 and has not been observed subsequently.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Wondiwoi tree-kangaroo was not declared extinct in 2018; rather, it was rediscovered and is considered one of the 'most wanted lost' species.

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Captive breeding programs for tree-kangaroos are managed by individual zoological institutions, lacking any form of international collaborative effort.

Answer: False

Explanation: Organizations like the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) coordinate international breeding programs for captive tree-kangaroos to ensure genetic diversity and viable populations.

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In 2014, Adelaide Zoo documented an orphaned tree-kangaroo joey being nurtured by a surrogate canine mother.

Answer: False

Explanation: The surrogate mother at Adelaide Zoo in 2014 was a yellow-footed rock-wallaby, not a canine.

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The Bronx Zoo reported the birth of a Matschie's tree-kangaroo joey in 2022, representing the first such event at the institution since 2008.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Bronx Zoo announced the birth of a Matschie's tree-kangaroo joey in April 2022, which was the first birth of its species there since 2008.

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Which of the following is not identified as a recognized species of tree-kangaroo within the provided source material?

Answer: Kangaroo Island kangaroo

Explanation: The Kangaroo Island kangaroo is not a recognized species of tree-kangaroo; the others listed are.

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What distinctive conservation status is attributed to the Wondiwoi tree-kangaroo?

Answer: It was thought extinct but rediscovered and is one of the 'most wanted lost' species.

Explanation: The Wondiwoi tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus mayri*) was rediscovered after being presumed extinct and is recognized as one of the 'most wanted lost' species.

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Which international organization is involved in coordinating breeding programs for captive tree-kangaroos?

Answer: The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA)

Explanation: The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) plays a role in coordinating international breeding programs for captive tree-kangaroos.

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What notable event involving a surrogate mother was reported at Adelaide Zoo in 2014?

Answer: A tree-kangaroo joey was raised by a surrogate yellow-footed rock-wallaby mother after its own mother died.

Explanation: In 2014, Adelaide Zoo reported an orphaned tree-kangaroo joey being successfully raised by a surrogate yellow-footed rock-wallaby mother.

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What is the principal objective of the coordinated breeding programs for tree-kangaroos managed by WAZA?

Answer: To maintain genetic diversity and viable populations outside of the wild.

Explanation: The primary goal of WAZA-coordinated breeding programs is to preserve genetic diversity and ensure viable populations in captivity.

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Which tree-kangaroo species is noted for its rediscovery in 2018 after being presumed extinct?

Answer: The Wondiwoi tree-kangaroo

Explanation: The Wondiwoi tree-kangaroo (*Dendrolagus mayri*) was rediscovered in 2018, having previously been presumed extinct.

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