Feeding truffles to wallabies may sound like a madcap whim of the jet-setting elite, but it may give researchers clues to preserving remnant forest systems.
Feeding truffles to wallabies may sound like a madcap whim of the jet-setting elite, but it may give researchers clues to preserving remnant forest systems.
Edith Cowan University researcher Dr Melissa Danks led an investigation into how swamp wallabies spread truffle spores around the environment, and results demonstrate the importance of these animals to the survival of the forest.
“There are thousands of truffle species in Australia and they play a critical role in helping our trees and woody plants to survive,” she said.
“Truffles live in a mutually beneficial relationship with these plants, helping them to uptake water and nutrients and defence against disease.
Read more at: Edith Cowan University
It is critical to understand the role of animals in forest ecosystem health. Credit Todd F Elliott. (Photo Credit: Todd F Elliott)
