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.
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.
No. Tasmanian devils are marsupials.
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.
No. Tasmanian devils tend to be solitary animals.
Tasmanian devils are marsupials of Australia.
Tasmanian devils do not attack humans.
Yes. Tasmanian devils have short, stumpy tails.
Tasmanian devils may not be hunted. They are protected by law.
No. Tasmanian devils are certainly not used for sports.
Tasmanian devils are mammals hence vertebrates .
Yes, Tasmanian devils can blink their eyes.
Of course. If there were no female Tasmanian devils, they could not reproduce. Tasmanian devils may be endangered, but they are also a viable species.