biology poster

Scientific name

Macropus rufus

Red Kangaroo

Sandra Balanga

Abstract

Macropus rufus, Red Kangaroo, is a non placental mammal in the group of marsupials. It is believe to have the capability of surviving in most parts of the world. Mainly resides in the arid an semi arid areas. Mainly feed on vegetation and also chews cud. They lack placenta, meaning young ones are born earlier before maturity. Locomotion is by the hind limbs. The exchange of material in the body is mainly through blood. Osmoregulation is through the normal body response.

Photograph or micrograph

First Aspect: Organism’s Ecology

Leaves mainly in arid and semi arid areas. Areas with some vegetation.

Second Aspect: Evolutionary adaptation

The use of hind legs for locomotion. Evolved from ancestors who used four. To be well suited in the drying up habitats. Raising to greater heights for vegetation.

Third Aspect: Predators

A few exist. Many are extinct like the marsupial lion.

Since contain meat rich in protein, the human is the current predator.

Fourth Aspect: Physiological process

Feeding is mainly grass through chewing. They regurgitate vegetation eaten, chew it as cud and swallow for final digestion.

Lack placenta hence give birth to immature young ones. They now grow up in their ‘pouch’.

Female have two uteri

and give birth through central one.

Osmoregulation: By normal body response

Exchange and transport mainly by blood.

Concept Map

Large in size, Larger hinds legs, Larger ears, They are pouched, Lengthy strong tail, Red in color (fur), about 6 ft tall, weigh about 200pounds, maroon-colored coat male, Strong hind legs,

Organismal Diversity Project

BIOL 1302 General Biology 2

Department of Natural Sciences