Spatial analysis of Tasmanian Devil facial tumour disease

Abstract

The analytical capabilities of a Geographic Information System (GIS) are increasingly being used to map the spread of disease and subsequent disease control. This project uses the spatial analysis techniques of a GIS to model habitat suitability of the Tasmanian devil and compare with available data on a disease affecting the devil. The Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) is the world's largest surviving carnivorous marsupial, and is only found in Tasmania. Approximately 10 years ago the devils began showing signs of a fatal disease that has now claimed between 33 - 50 percent of the native population. Devil Facial Tumour Disease (referred to as DFTD) has been recorded in over 65 percent of the state but is feared to be present over a larger area. Research conducted so far has failed to identify the cause of the disease or provide a cure. There is evidence to suggest that the spread of DFTD is dependent on devil population density (Jones M, pers comm).