There is only one species in this family, the numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus).

The numbat is found in the southwest region of Western Australia. At one time, they were found throughout southern Australia. Their numbers probably declined due to being preyed on by an exotic species, the European red fox.

The numbat has a long, slender body. It has reddish-brown fur with white and black stripes. It has a long, bushy tail; a long, pointed snout; and a long, thin, sticky tongue.

The numbat is an insectivore and uses its long snout and tongue to root for termites in the soil.

Unlike most marsupials, the numbat is most active during the day. The female numbat, unlike other marsupial females, does not have a pouch.