Distribution, habitat and satus of the Carpentarian rock-rat, Zyzomys palatalis

Abstract

A survey was conducted in the Northern Temtory and Queensland to determine the distribution, status and habitat use of the recently described Carpentarian rock-rat, Zyzomys palatalis. The species was previously known from two localities in the Gulf of Carpentaria, and this survey added only one new population to its known range. The species is restricted to monsoon rainforest on scree slopes. In the Gulf region this habitat is very limited and highly fragmented. The only areas where suitable habitat exists are in relatively inaccessible gorges where permanent springs provide enough moisture to maintain the monsoon rainforests. These patches of relict vegetation may be threatened by feral animals and changing fire regimes. Because of the low population size of Z. palatalis and the small size of suitable habitat available, the species is considered to be critically endangered.