Guinea hog and Merian opossum, Sus scrofa, Didelphys murina

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Guinea hog and Merian opossum, Sus scrofa, Didelphys murina

Guinea hog and Merian opossum, Sus scrofa, Didelphys murina.. Handcolored copperplate engraving from Ebenezer Siblys Universal System of Natural History, 1794. The prolific Sibly published his Universal System of Natural History in 1794-1796 in five volumes covering the three natural worlds of fauna, flora and geology

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Media ID 14219623

© Florilegius / Mary Evans

Ebenezer Guinea Maria Merian Opossum Scrofa Sibly System Universal Sybilla

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> Animals > Mammals > Opossum

> Animals > Mammals > Sciuridae > Sybilla

EDITORS COMMENTS
This striking handcolored copperplate engraving, taken from Ebenezer Sibly's Universal System of Natural History published in 1794-1796, beautifully captures the Guinea hog (Sus scrofa) and Merian opossum (Didelphys murina) in their natural habitat. Sibly, a prolific naturalist and publisher, meticulously documented the three natural worlds of fauna, flora, and geology in his comprehensive work. The Guinea hog, also known as the African pig or the forest hog, is depicted on the left side of the illustration. With its distinctive short legs, powerful build, and bristly coat, this wild pig species is native to sub-Saharan Africa. The Guinea hog is an essential component of the African savanna and forest ecosystems, serving as both a prey animal and an important seed disperser. On the right side of the engraving, the Merian opossum, or Virginia opossum, is shown. This North American marsupial is the only opossum species found north of Mexico. It is easily recognized by its grayish-brown fur, pointed snout, and distinctive prehensile tail. The Merian opossum is an omnivore, feeding on a wide variety of food sources, including insects, fruits, and small vertebrates. The intricate details of the Guinea hog and Merian opossum in this handcolored copperplate engraving are a testament to the meticulous work of the skilled engravers and naturalists of the time. This historical illustration offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural history of these fascinating creatures and the scientific curiosity that drove early naturalists to document and preserve their observations for future generations.

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