Mammals:
* Bats: Melanesia has over 100 species of bats, including the iconic flying foxes (fruit bats) and many insectivorous bats.
* Rodents: Rats, mice, and other rodents are abundant, with some unique species like the giant rat of New Guinea.
* Marsupials: Possums, bandicoots, and cuscuses are found in Melanesia, some being unique to certain islands.
* Other Mammals: The island of New Guinea is also home to the unique tree kangaroo, the endangered New Guinea Singing Dog, and various species of pigs.
Birds:
* Birds of Paradise: This group of colorful and striking birds is found only in New Guinea and nearby islands.
* Parrots: Melanesia boasts a variety of parrots, including cockatoos, lorikeets, and various species of parakeets.
* Cassowaries: These large, flightless birds are found on New Guinea and nearby islands, known for their impressive size and distinctive calls.
* Other Birds: Melanesia is home to a vast array of other bird species, including kingfishers, pigeons, and a variety of songbirds.
Reptiles and Amphibians:
* Lizards: A wide variety of lizards, including geckos, skinks, and monitor lizards, are found throughout Melanesia.
* Snakes: From pythons to venomous snakes like taipans, Melanesia has a diverse snake population.
* Frogs and Toads: Many unique frog species are found in Melanesia, including the iconic tree frogs.
* Crocodiles: Saltwater crocodiles inhabit coastal areas, while freshwater crocodiles are found in inland rivers and swamps.
Insects:
* Butterflies: Melanesia is home to a vast array of butterflies, including some of the most colorful and diverse species in the world.
* Beetles: Beetles are incredibly diverse in Melanesia, with thousands of species inhabiting various habitats.
* Other Insects: From ants to grasshoppers, the insect life in Melanesia is both fascinating and important to the ecosystem.
Marine Life:
* Fish: The waters surrounding Melanesia are teeming with a wide variety of fish, including coral reef fish, pelagic fish, and sharks.
* Coral Reefs: Melanesia's coral reefs are some of the most diverse and vibrant in the world, supporting a vast array of marine life.
* Whales and Dolphins: Whales and dolphins migrate through Melanesian waters, particularly in the cooler months.
* Other Marine Life: Turtles, dugongs, and a variety of other marine creatures are found in Melanesian waters.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list, and the specific animals found in each part of Melanesia will vary depending on the island and habitat.
It's important to remember that the diverse wildlife of Melanesia is under threat from habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change. Conservation efforts are crucial to protecting these unique animals for future generations.