Manusela Melomys

discussion

Discussion: Still known only by the type series (2 specimens in BMNH; Helgen, 2003 b). Originally described as a species of Uromys, then placed in Pogonomelomys by Rümmler (1938), kept there by Tate (1951), but returned to Melomys by Laurie and Hill (1954). Based on our study of specimens, M. fraterculus shares many derived cranial features with the Australian M. cervinipes complex and may be more closely related to the indigenous Australian Melomys than to those on New Guinea. Menzies (1990: 134), however, wrote that " Without more material and additional study it is difficult to say more about it. For the present it is best left in Melomys, " and for Flannery (1995 b: 133) " It may ultimately be necessary to create a new genus for it. " Helgen (2003 b) promised a review in a forthcoming report.

Order Rodentia - Family Muridae

materials_examined

Type Locality: Indonesia, Pulau Seram, Mt Manusela, 6000 ft (1830 m).

Order Rodentia - Family Muridae

discussion

COMMENTS: Placed in Pogonomelomys by Riimmler (1938), kept there by Tate (1951), but returned to Melomys by Laurie and Hill (1954). Based on our study of specimens, Melomys fraterculus shares many derived cranial features with the Australian M. cervinipes complex and is probably more closely related to the indigenous Australian Melomys than to those on New Guinea.

Order Rodentia - Family Muridae

activity

Activity patterns. The label on the paratype skin states “ said by natives to live in trees; trapped in heavy jungle in limestone country, ” which suggests that the Manusela Mosaic-tailed Rat is an arboreal species.

Muridae