Recently, Everything Dinosaur reviewed the new CollectA Diprotodon figure. This 1/20th scale replica is a new addition to the CollectA Deluxe range.
It is a model of male Diprotodon, and it has been praised by model collectors. The old Thylacoleo scar on the rump has received plenty of attention. The torn ear and bite mark on the cheek that suggest intraspecific combat have been commented upon. However, this new for 2024 replica of the largest marsupial known to science incorporates lots of other amazing details. For example, the inside of the nostrils is glossy and moist. The incisors in the jaws accurately reflect the fossil evidence. The design team have even given the impression of whiskers on the nose, throat and chin.
Taking a Closer Look at Diprotodon
Details on the head of the CollectA Deluxe Diprotodon figure. The white arrows highlight the incisors at the front of the jaw. The lower jaw has the two scalpriform (chisel-shaped) incisors, whilst the upper jaw has six incisors in total. The black arrow highlights the wet interior of the nostril and the sensitive pits (red arrow), probably housing whiskers, are found on the side of the snout. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.
Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur
These are all nice touches and reflect how much care and attention to detail goes into the making of CollectA figures.
To view the CollectA Deluxe range in stock at Everything Dinosaur: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animals.
The image (above) shows a close-up view of the head of the CollectA Deluxe Diprotodon.
The head is shown in lateral view. Arrows highlight various details on the figure. For example, the red arrow points to a series of pits along the side of the snout. These pits could indicate the presence of sensitive whiskers. The wet and glossy nostril is indicated by the black arrow. In addition, the two white arrows indicate the position of the incisors in the anterior part of the jaw. Furthermore, in this lateral view the torn ear on the figure can be clearly seen. This injury probably resulted from a fight with another male Diprotodon. Scientists think these animals indulged in intraspecific combat. Perhaps, fighting over territory, social status or mates.
The CollectA Diprotodon Figure
The CollectA Deluxe Diprotodon figure is the only prehistoric mammal model to be added to the CollectA portfolio this year. The dentition of this figure has been praised previously. For instance, the lower jaw incisors are chisel-shaped (scalpriform). This strongly reflects what is seen in the fossil record.
An extinct giant. The fossil skeleton of Diprotodon the largest marsupial known to science. The scalpriform incisors are clearly visible in this lateral view of the London Natural History Museum exhibit. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.
Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur
The image (above) shows the Diprotodon (D. optatum) exhibit at the London Natural History Museum. The exhibit is appropriately entitled “Extinct Giant”.
To read Everything Dinosaur’s review of the CollectA Diprotodon figure and to watch a short YouTube video highlighting the model: CollectA Deluxe Diprotodon Video Review.
The taxonomic relationship between the Diprotodon genus and extant wombats and their close relatives remains unclear. However, CollectA have skilfully combined a knowledge of living members of the Diprotodontia with body and trace fossils.
The design team at CollectA have incorporated a series of circular pits on the lower jaw to indicate the presence of sensitive whiskers on the model. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.
Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur
Circular Pits on the Lower Jaw
Wombats have long, sensitive whiskers either side of their nostrils. In addition, there are four other areas of the face and neck that have whiskers. There are whiskers on the cheeks and a patch under the chin. Furthermore, there are whiskers on the throat. The CollectA Deluxe Diprotodon highlights the sensitive pits associated with these areas.
When collectors examine the CollectA Diprotodon figure closely, they can observe lots of amazing detail.
Take a close look at the Everything Dinosaur website: Prehistoric Animal Models.
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