Source: Wikimedia Commons
Short-tailed Opossum
IntermediateMonodelphis
Small marsupial from South America. Solitary and omnivorous, eating insects and fruits. Curious and tames well with handling.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
18〜26℃
Lifespan
4-6 years
Size
12-18cm (25cm with tail) / 60-150g
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Insects (mealworms, crickets), fruits, specialized food
About
The gray short-tailed opossum (Monodelphis domestica) is a small marsupial native to the tropical forests and savannas of Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia. Adults measure 12–18 cm in body length with a short, partially prehensile tail, and weigh 60–150 g. Unlike most marsupials, short-tailed opossums lack a pouch; the highly altricial young cling directly to the mother's abdominal fur and mammary glands. They are nocturnal omnivores, feeding on insects, fruit, and small invertebrates in the wild. They are skilled climbers, using their semi-prehensile tail for support. In captivity, they should be housed individually as they are territorial. A vertically oriented cage with climbing branches, hammocks, and a nest box is essential. Diet should mirror their natural intake: live insects (mealworms, crickets), fruit, and limited protein sources. Optimal temperature is 24–28 °C. Common health concerns include obesity, nutritional deficiencies, and fractures. Captive lifespan is 4–8 years.
Basic Info
Origin
Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia
Lifespan
4-6 years
Size
12-18cm (25cm with tail) / 60-150g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Insects (mealworms, crickets), fruits, specialized food
Care Guide
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Monodelphis (Wagner, 1842)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern
Sources: Monodelphis domestica IUCN LC (not CITES-listed)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Short-tailed Opossum Listings
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