A University of Queensland-led project has developed a tool to standardise genetic testing of koala populations, providing a significant boost to conservation and recovery efforts.
A University of Queensland-led project has developed a tool to standardise genetic testing of koala populations, providing a significant boost to conservation and recovery efforts.
Dr Lyndal Hulse from UQ’s School of the Environment said the standardised koala genetic marker panel provides a consistent method for researchers nationwide to capture and share koala genetic variation, enabling improved collaboration and data integration across studies.
“Koalas in the wild are under increasing pressure from habitat loss, disease and vehicle strikes, forcing them to live in increasingly smaller and more isolated pockets with limited access to breeding mates outside their group,” Dr Hulse said.
“Population inbreeding can mean detrimental effects on their health.
Read more at University of Queensland
Image: A south-east Queensland koala. (Credit: Michaela Blyton, The University of Queensland)
