Overview
- Published March 5 in Science, the study sequenced whole genomes from 418 koalas across 27 populations to reconstruct demographic history and genetic change.
- Victoria’s koalas, reduced to roughly 500–1,000 animals last century, now show increasing effective population size and early signs of genetic recovery.
- Rapid population expansion has boosted recombination and rare variants, creating new gene combinations that can spread beneficial traits and reduce harmful ones.
- Field reports document declines in tooth and testicular malformations in Victoria, with researchers noting that potential genetic links are still being examined.
- Koalas in Queensland and New South Wales show recent declines in effective population size and generally carry more harmful mutations, highlighting the need for region-specific conservation strategies.