The cause of the low level genetic diversity in Tasmanian devils is unknown at the present time, but it makes it much harder for the animals to survive such a ferocious disease. The cancer, unlike most others, is infectious. It's believed to have started with a genetic mutation in one individual and it's passed on through bites and scratches. It takes hold very quickly and causes large tumours on the face and neck, sometimes making it impossible for an animal to eat. Some end up dying of starvation.
To help expand Tasmanian devil genetic diversity and to prevent it from dying out, a new national project has been created. It will be led by zoologist Dr Jeremy Austin, from Adelaide University. His main task will be to try and stop the cancer in its tracks, by taking cell and tissue samples and studying the genetic material to develop a vaccine.
The need is urgent because the cancer usually strikes before the devils reach sexual maturity, killing them off before they've had a chance to breed.
