Possum and opossum are terms used to refer to marsupials but in different regions. Possum is commonly used to refer to marsupials found in Australia, New Zealand, and nearby islands, and opossum is the term used for marsupials found primarily in the Americas, ranging from North to South America.
Possum and opossum, two seemingly similar terms, have sparked confusion due to their nearly identical names. While they share a resemblance in name, their origins, habitats, and evolutionary history diverge significantly.
What is a possum?
A possum is a small to medium-sized marsupial native to Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands.
Possums belong to the family Phalangeridae and are characterized by their prehensile tails, which they use for climbing and grasping branches. They have adapted to a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and urban areas.
Possums are known for their diverse range of species, each with unique characteristics. One of the most well-known species is the brushtail possum, which is found throughout Australia and has also been introduced to New Zealand. These possums are nocturnal and are often spotted at night foraging for food in trees.
What is an opossum?
An opossum is a marsupial native to the Americas, ranging from North to South America.
Opossums belong to the family Didelphidae and are known for their unique characteristics and behaviors.
The most well-known species of opossum is the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), which is found in the United States and Canada. These opossums are the only marsupials native to North America. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a long, pointed face, hairless tail, and a somewhat rat-like appearance.
Below is a picture of an opossum.
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Reference:
Josie Messeter
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