How are Tasmanian devils important to their ecosystem?

Answer 1

Tasmanian devils perform a very important function within their niche. They feed on carrion, which is the carcasses of dead animals, thereby cleaning up the environment. Apart from the native quoll and the introduced fox, there are no other mammal predators in Tasmania, so the Tasmanian devil is an important link in the food chain.

Answer 2

Besides being carnivorous predators, Tasmanian devils are also efficient scavengers. They eat carrion, or the bodies and remains of dead animals, and this minimises the unpleasant effects of decaying flesh lying around.

Answer 3

Tasmanian devils are at the top of the food chain. They are effective predators and hunters. However, they also perform a very useful function as scavengers of carriin. Tasmanian devils clean up the ecosystem, eating the bodies of dead animals.