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Evolution of Two Contagious Cancers Affecting Tasmanian Devils Underlines Unpredictability of Disease Threat

Tasmanian devils are known for their fierce temperament and powerful jaws, but they are also vulnerable to two contagious cancers that have decimated their population in recent years. The first cancer, known as Devil Facial Tumor Disease (DFTD), was discovered in 1996 and has since spread throughout Tasmania, causing a decline of up to 80% in some areas. The second cancer, known as Devil Facial Tumor 2 (DFT2), was discovered in 2014 and is also highly contagious. The evolution of these two cancers highlights the unpredictability of disease threats and the need for ongoing research and monitoring.

The Discovery of DFTD

DFTD is a transmissible cancer that affects the facial tissues of Tasmanian devils. It is spread through biting during aggressive interactions, which are common among devils during mating and feeding. The cancer cells are able to evade the immune system of the host devil, allowing them to grow and spread rapidly throughout the body. The first case of DFTD was reported in northeastern Tasmania in 1996, and it has since spread throughout most of the island.

The Impact of DFTD

DFTD has had a devastating impact on Tasmanian devil populations, with some areas experiencing declines of up to 80%. The disease is highly contagious and spreads quickly through populations, making it difficult to control. In addition to causing facial tumors that can interfere with feeding and breathing, DFTD weakens the immune system of infected devils, making them more susceptible to other diseases.

The Evolution of DFT2

In 2014, a second contagious cancer affecting Tasmanian devils was discovered. This cancer, known as DFT2, is similar to DFTD but affects different facial tissues. It is believed to have originated from a different individual devil than the one that gave rise to DFTD, indicating that multiple cancers can arise in a single species. DFT2 has not spread as widely as DFTD, but it has been found in multiple locations throughout Tasmania.

The Unpredictability of Disease Threats

The evolution of DFTD and DFT2 highlights the unpredictability of disease threats and the need for ongoing research and monitoring. These cancers are unique in that they are contagious and can spread rapidly through populations, making them difficult to control. The fact that two different cancers have emerged in Tasmanian devils underscores the need for continued vigilance and research into emerging diseases.

Conclusion

The evolution of two contagious cancers affecting Tasmanian devils underscores the unpredictability of disease threats and the need for ongoing research and monitoring. These cancers have had a devastating impact on Tasmanian devil populations, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect this iconic species. As we continue to learn more about these diseases, we can work towards developing effective strategies for controlling their spread and mitigating their impact.

FAQs

1. Can Tasmanian devils recover from DFTD or DFT2?

- While some devils have been known to recover from DFTD, it is rare. There is currently no known cure for either disease.

2. Are other species at risk of developing contagious cancers?

- While transmissible cancers are rare, they have been documented in other species such as dogs and clams.

3. What is being done to protect Tasmanian devils from these diseases?

- Conservation efforts include captive breeding programs, vaccination trials, and monitoring of wild populations.

This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.

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