Short-Tailed Opossum

Monodelphis domestica

The short-tailed opossum, Monodelphis domestica, is a small South American marsupial with a compact body, pointed muzzle, and short tail compared with many other opossums. It is solitary, mostly nocturnal, and does not have the pouch people often expect from marsupials. Its manageable size and use in developmental and genetic research have made it better known in laboratories and specialty exotic-pet circles than in general wildlife collections.

Captive short-tailed opossums need secure individual housing, warm stable temperatures, hiding places, climbing surfaces, and a diet that reflects their insectivorous and omnivorous habits. Adults can be territorial, so pairing is usually limited to planned breeding introductions. Responsible keepers watch body condition closely and avoid overfeeding sweet or fatty foods. Research and breeding colonies rely on careful age, parentage, and health records because reproduction and development happen on a compressed timeline.