What causes dftd

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Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: Devil facial tumour disease (DFTD) is a transmissible cancer that affects Tasmanian devils. It is caused by the transfer of living cancer cells from one devil to another, most commonly through biting during social interactions.

Key Facts

DFTD is a clonal transmissible cancer, meaning it originated from a single individual and spreads as a living tissue.
The disease is primarily transmitted through direct contact, particularly during aggressive biting that is common in Tasmanian devils.
First identified in 1996, DFTD has caused a population decline of over 80% in some areas.
There are two main forms of DFTD: DFT1, which is widespread, and DFT2 (or Perth disease), which is geographically restricted.
Research is ongoing to understand the genetic and immunological factors that influence devil susceptibility and resistance to DFTD.

What is Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD)?

Devil facial tumour disease (DFTD) is a devastating and unique transmissible cancer that exclusively affects Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii). It is one of only a few known transmissible cancers in mammals, making it a subject of intense scientific interest and concern for the survival of this iconic Australian marsupial.

How is DFTD Caused and Transmitted?

The cause of DFTD is the transfer of living cancer cells from an affected devil to a healthy one. Unlike most cancers, which are caused by genetic mutations within an individual's own cells, DFTD is caused by cells from another individual. This transfer typically occurs during direct physical contact, especially through biting. Tasmanian devils are known for their aggressive social interactions, including feeding frenzies and territorial disputes, which provide ample opportunities for the cancer cells to be transmitted.

When a devil bites another, particularly around the face and mouth, malignant cells from the tumour can be implanted into the wound. These cells then proliferate, forming new tumours. The cancer cells are genetically identical to the donor devil, allowing them to evade the immune system of the recipient, at least initially. However, over time, the recipient's immune system may mount a response, but the aggressive nature of the cancer often leads to rapid progression.

The Two Strains of DFTD

There are two distinct strains of DFTD that have been identified:

DFT1: This is the original and most widespread strain, first identified in 1996 in Mount William on the northeast coast of Tasmania. DFT1 has spread across most of the devil's range and is responsible for the dramatic population declines observed.
DFT2 (Perth disease): This second strain was identified in 2014 in the West Tamar region of Tasmania. DFT2 appears to be genetically distinct from DFT1 and has a different geographical distribution and potentially different characteristics, though it also causes facial tumours and is transmissible.

Impact on Tasmanian Devil Populations

Since its discovery, DFTD has had a catastrophic impact on Tasmanian devil populations. In many areas, populations have declined by more than 80%. The disease affects devils of all ages and sexes, leading to widespread mortality. The rapid spread and high fatality rate have placed the species at risk of extinction, prompting significant conservation efforts.

Conservation and Research Efforts

The severity of DFTD has spurred extensive research into its origins, transmission, and potential treatments or preventative measures. Scientists are studying the genetic makeup of the cancer cells and the devils themselves to understand why some devils survive or develop resistance. Conservation programs include establishing insurance populations in disease-free areas, captive breeding programs, and research into potential immunotherapies or vaccines.

Understanding the unique biological nature of DFTD is crucial not only for saving the Tasmanian devil but also for advancing our knowledge of cancer biology and evolution in general. The fight against DFTD highlights the complex interplay between disease, evolution, and conservation in the wild.