Pronunciation: [fˈalaŋɡə] (IPA) 
The word "phalanger" refers to any of several small, arboreal marsupials found in Australia and nearby islands. The spelling of this word can be somewhat confusing due to the presence of two distinct "a" sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /fəˈlændʒər/ where the first "a" sound is represented by the schwa symbol (ə) and the second "a" sound is represented by the phonetic symbol for the "a" sound in "cat" (æ).
A phalanger refers to any of the several species within the family Phalangeridae, a group of marsupials endemic to Australia and New Guinea. These medium-sized arboreal mammals are predominantly nocturnal and are characterized by their long, prehensile tails, which are used for grasping tree branches.
Phalangers have a distinctive appearance with their round heads, large eyes, and slender bodies covered in dense fur. They possess strong claws on their front and hind limbs, enabling them to move adeptly across branches and trunks. Their hind limbs are longer than their forelimbs, allowing them to effortlessly leap from tree to tree.
Primarily herbivorous, phalangers sustain their diet by consuming fruits, leaves, flowers, and nectar, although some species may also consume insects and small vertebrates. Their diet often depends on the available resources within their habitat.
Female phalangers possess a characteristic abdominal pouch where they carry their young, known as joeys, during their early stages of development. Like other marsupials, phalangers give birth to relatively undeveloped young that retreat into the pouch for further growth and nourishment.
Due to their unique adaptations and ecological role as seed dispersers, phalangers play a vital role in maintaining the biodiversity of the ecosystems they inhabit. Given their adaptability and widespread distribution, they have become a fascinating subject of study for zoologists and conservationists interested in unraveling the intricate dynamics of arboreal ecosystems.
A marsupial animal inhabiting Australia and adjoining parts-so called from the formation of the hind feet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "phalanger" originated from the Greek word "phalangion", which means "small animal with a claw". It further derives from the Greek words "phalanx" (meaning "phalanx" or "finger") and "-ger" (meaning "to bear" or "to carry").
