136Inside
outside
X-ray images from a new CSIRO book
provide an unexpected view of a series
of Australian native animals.
(^1) AERIAL ADAPTATIONS
The shadow of a gliding mem-
brane – a skin fold known as the
patagium – can be seen in this
image of a squirrel glider (Petaurus
norfolcensis). Elongated vertebrae
are a less obvious adaptation for
gliding. Similar to other possums
and gliders, the limb and tail
structure reflects this species’
tree-dwelling lifestyle.
(^2) DEVIL’S DETAIL
Combine this fearsome tooth
display with the extraordinary bite
strength of the Tasmanian devil
(Sarcophilus harrisii) – which is the
same as that of a dog four times
its size – and it’s clear why this
endangered carnivore has such a
savage reputation.
(^3) ANCIENT ANCESTRY
Unique pelvic bones reveal a link
between the short-beaked echidna
(Tachyglossus aculeatus), extinct
mammalian ancestors and living
crocodiles. Note the sharp protec-
tive spines covering the echidna’s
body – like our fingernails, they are
made of the hard protein keratin.
(^4) INJURY EXPOSURE
The unmistakeable shape of the
bill makes it impossible to confuse
the platypus (Ornithorhynchus
anatinus) with any other mammal.
This individual appears to have had
an accident-prone life – note the
fractured ribs on its right side and
a healed fracture on its left leg.
(^5) FLIGHT POWER
The bones of the pelvis and front
limbs have been highly modified
to create a supportive framework
for the wings of the grey-headed
flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus).
(^6) TUNNELLING SIGNS
Strong stout limbs are telltale signs
of a common wombat’s (Vombat-
inus ursinus) burrowing lifestyle.
The contents of its digestive tract
are also clearly visible here.
(^7) BABIES ABOARD
Three joeys are tucked away in the
pouch of this common ring-tailed
possum (Pseudocheirus peregri-
nus). It looks like a tight squeeze,
but there’s room in there and
enough teats for up to four babies.
ANATOMY
Images reproduced from Radiology of Australian Mammals
(CSIRO Publishing, 2015). Find it online at: http://www.publish.csiro.au
20 Australian Geographic