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Do Scientists have a clear solution to the origin of the facial tumours found on Tasmanian Devils?
Wiki User
∙ 15y ago
From about 1996, the Tasmanian Devil has been threatened by a fatal form of cancer called "Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD)" which has killed more than 90% of adults in high density areas and 45% of adults in medium to low density areas resulting in an "Endangered" classification. Since then, the Threatened Species Scientific Advisory Committee has recommended moving the Tasmanian Devil up the "Endangered Species" list. A number of groups have combined to fund, study, analyse and come up with a cure for DFTD. You can find out more about it or assist by going to the attached Web Page and selecting one of the options.
Wiki User
∙ 15y ago
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How did the Tasmanian devils' tumours form?
It is not known what initially caused the Tasmanian Devil Facial Tumour Disease. Tasmanian Devils seem to be particularly vulnerable to this disease because of their genetic makeup: they have particularly low levels of genetic diversity and a chromosomal mutation which is unique among carnivorous mammals. It is hoped that, by studying this genetic makeup, scientists will be able to develop a vaccine and/or cure. In 2009, scientists identified the genetic marker that causes Tasmanian devils to be predisposed to the disease, and this will go a long way towards finding a cure.
Why do dingoes eat Tasmanian Devils?
Dingoes do not eat Tasmanian devils. There are no dingoes on the Australian island of Tasmania, and there are no Tasmanian devils remaining on the Australian mainland. When the two species co-existed on the mainland, scientists do not believe that dingoes took on Tasmanian devils as predator to prey, but that the two species were competitors for food.
Are Tasmanian devils placental?
No. Tasmanian devils are marsupials.
Do Tasmanian devils Live in packs?
No. Tasmanian devils tend to be solitary animals.
Do Tasmanian devils breed?
Of course Tasmanian devils breed. If they didn't, there would be no Tasmanian devils left today. Tasmanian devils are mammals, which are vertebrates. All vertebrates breed.
Are Tasmanian devils amphibians or marsupials?
Tasmanian devils are marsupials of Australia.
Why do Tasmanian devils attack humans?
Tasmanian devils do not attack humans.
Can Tasmanian devils get sick?
Tasmanian devils can certainly get sick. Tasmanian Devils are threatened by a fatal form of cancer called Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD) which is transmitted between Tasmanian devils by biting.
Can Tasmanian devils be hunted?
Tasmanian devils may not be hunted. They are protected by law.
Do Tasmanian devils have a tail?
Yes. Tasmanian devils have short, stumpy tails.
Are Tasmanian devils used for sports?
No. Tasmanian devils are certainly not used for sports.
Can Tasmanian devils blink their eyes?
Yes, Tasmanian devils can blink their eyes.
