Hunter koalas escape disease epidemic, thanks to genetic isolation
Researchers found more than 2300 Hunter koalas testing free of chlamydia. But genetic isolation that protected them creates new weakness.
University of Newcastle researchers tested 27 koalas from Mount Sugarloaf. They found no sign of chlamydia.
An epidemic of this disease is destroying koala populations across Australia. The Mount Sugarloaf population now exceeds 2300 koalas.
It is one of Australia's most significant colonies. Scientists used thermal-imaging drones to spot koalas by body heat in winter.
They then collected scat samples for testing. Looking at the colony's genes shows they have lived in near-total isolation for years.
That isolation may have protected them from chlamydia. But the same isolation has left them genetically uniform and weak.
Road accidents are the main threat. They caused 38 of 61 recorded rescues.
Researchers say connecting habitat areas and building wildlife crossings could protect the population long-term.
- 27
- Koalas tested
- exceeds 2300
- Population size
- 38 of 61
- Road accident rescues
- Mount Sugarloaf, Hunter
- Location
Why it mattersFinding a large disease-free koala colony shows the species can thrive in areas around cities. But it also shows how isolation creates new dangers that need urgent action.
AustraliaThis NSW discovery suggests koalas can survive in backyards and fringe habitats near cities if given protection and wildlife corridors, changing how Australia might approach koala conservation.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 4 h ago
