Watch FIFA World Cup 2026™

LIVE, FREE and EXCLUSIVE

'Fit' NSW koalas could save species

Genetically 'fit' koalas in NSW could play a vital role in saving the species from extinction.

Queensland researchers have found pockets of genetically-diverse koalas that could prove to be the saviours of the species.

Koala populations across Australia are in decline largely due to human interference and disease, but a James Cook University study has discovered genetic diversity in some regions, particularly near the Blue Mountains in NSW.

"To effectively manage koalas across Australia and in captivity we must understand how genetically diverse these populations are, how 'fit' they are," JCU Professor Professor Kyall Zenger said.


1 min read

Published

Source: AAP



Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News daily and direct to your Inbox

Sign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Watch now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world