Body composition of the Kangaroo (Macropus Sp)

Abstract

Results are reported of the dissections of nine red kangaroos (M. rufus) and four grey kangaroos (M. major). Weights of dissected carcass muscle, bone, and fat, of the viscera, and of the parotid and submaxillary glands were all significantly correlated with empty liveweight. The mean percentage of carcass muscle in the liveweight was 51.7%. The kangaroos had more muscle, and less total fat than have domestic livestock of similar liveweights. The parotid and submaxillary glands were similar histologically to those of the calf and the sheep, but the parotid glands of the kangaroo were about twice the weight of those of the calf or sheep. The weight of the submaxillary gland was half the weight of the parotid gland in the kangaroo, and of similar size to that of the sheep or the calf. In view of its body composition it is suggested that the value of the kangaroo as a producer of edible protein in areas marginal for the production of domestic livestock is worthy of investigation.