Human parasites may be Tassie devil threat

The already endangered Tasmanian devil is at further risk following the discovery of a human-derived parasite spreading among the species.

The giardia strain of parasite is spread by the faeces of infected hosts and transmitted most commonly via contaminated water.

Macquarie University researchers have found new types of parasite in up to 38 per cent of the wild devil population.

"We found that Tasmanian devils harbour strains of Giardia that are commonly found in humans," research author Liana Wait said.

"Human encroachment into the devils' habitat, through actions such as the dispersal of wastewater from humans or swimming when suffering diarrhoea, could potentially be introducing new parasites."

The devil population has been decimated in recent years by a transmissible facial tumour disease, with captive breeding programs finally showing some hope.

"However, other disease threats that have the potential to thwart Tasmanian devil health and population recovery also need to be considered," researcher Michelle Power added.

Parasites can cause disease and the research team plans to monitor the impact on devils with the view to finding a remedy if necessary.