Researchers map the koala genome all in the name of saving the species

Koalas, the tree-dwelling marsupials found in eucalyptus forests and woodlands across Eastern Australia, is not just a cute and fluffy fascination for tourists.  

It's also a perfect research subject for a group of dedicated scientists working to ensure the animal's survival.

SEE ALSO: Platypus milk is not a new trendy milk, but it could save lives

Publishing their findings in the journal Nature Genetics, a group of 54 scientists from seven countries successfully sequenced over 26,000 genes in the koala genome, assembling it with supercomputers. 

Why would you spend time decoding a genomic sequence when you have so much Netflix to watch? Survival, man.  Read more...

More about Australia, Science, Conservation, Koala, and Genetics


via Zero Tech Blog

Share this

Share on FacebookPlus on Google+