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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.
What else can I help you with?
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.
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.
Do Tasmanian devils get along with other Tasmanian devils?
Tasmanian devils are solitary creatures and do not socialise with others of their species except for the purpose of reproduction. They are very territorial, however, and will fight over food. One of the reasons the Devil Facial Tumour Disease is such a problem is that it is transmitted by the Tasmanian devils biting each other.
Can you save Tasmanian devils?
You can save the Tassie Devil by donating to causes that look for a cure for the facial cancer that they have.
What are some good ''did you know'' questions about Tasmanian devils?
Did you know:Tasmanian devils belong to a group of marsupials known as "dasyurids", which are the carnivorous marsupials?Tasmanian devils are not only hunters, but also scavengers, and carrion-feeders?Tasmanian devils are subject to a disease known as Devil facial tumour Disease, or DFTD, which causes cancerous lesions over their face?Tasmanian devils gained their name of "devil" from the unearthly shrieking sounds they make as they fight over their food at night?Tasmanian devils can emit a pungent odor as a defence mechanism when threatened?
Are Tasmanian devils placental?
No. Tasmanian devils are marsupials.
Benefits of Devil's Facial Tumour Disease?
There are no benefits to the Devil's Facial Tumour disease found in Tasmanian Devils. It is an insidious and dangerous disease which is gradually spreading through more and more of the Tasmanian Devil population.
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.
How is DFTD affecting the Tasmanian devil population?
DFTD, or Devil Facial Tumour Disease, has infected approximately 60% of Tasmanian devils on the island of Tasmania, resulting in the Tasmanian Devil being classified as "endangered".
Why do Tasmanian devils attack humans?
Tasmanian devils do not attack humans.
Are Tasmanian devils amphibians or marsupials?
Tasmanian devils are marsupials of Australia.
