Tasmanian Devil could become extinct

The Tasmanian devil population is at risk of extinction due to a contagious cancer known as devil facial tumor disease. Researchers are capturing and testing devils to monitor the disease's spread. Despite efforts, a cure remains elusive, and the disease continues to evolve. Conservation plans include breeding healthy devils in captivity. If wild devils go extinct, the disease may die out, allowing for potential reintroduction. The situation is reminiscent of the thylacine's extinction, highlighting the urgency of conservation efforts.

What is unique about the devil facial tumor disease affecting Tasmanian devils?

• It only affects young devils.

• It is a contagious cancer.

• It spreads through the air.

• It is a non-contagious disease.

Why might some Tasmanian devil populations have survived the disease?

• They have been isolated from the disease.

• They have developed a natural immunity.

• They have been vaccinated.

• They are not affected by the disease.

What is one of the main challenges in finding a cure for the devil facial tumor disease?

• The disease is not well understood.

• The disease mutates and evolves.

• There is no funding for research.

• The disease is not contagious.

What is the purpose of the breeding programs for Tasmanian devils?

• To increase the population in the wild.

• To create a backup population in case of extinction.

• To find a cure for the disease.

• To study the behavior of devils in captivity.

What historical event is used to highlight the importance of Tasmanian devil conservation?

• The extinction of the woolly mammoth.

• The extinction of the passenger pigeon.

• The extinction of the thylacine.

• The extinction of the dodo bird.