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rhamphotheca:

7 New Species of Mice Discovered on Remote Mountain in the Philippines 

Seven new forest mouse species have come out of hiding on Luzon, the largest island of the Philippines, researchers announced Monday (June 21). The discovery of the new species, which reside only on a small part of the island, has increased the number of Luzon’s native mammal species, excluding bats, to 49.

Observations of each mouse’s morphology as well as genetics suggest the seven newbies are part of a new subgenus called Megapomys, which is part of the genus Apomys. These mice are relatively large, weighing less than a half pound (65-110 grams) and sporting tails that are as long as, or slightly shorter, than the length of the animal’s body and head…

(read more: Live Science)

(via scientificillustration)