Title: Correlation of qualitative parameters of the koala coat and health status
Background: The coat of koalas plays a crucial role in thermoregulation, waterproofing and overall health. While variations in coat colour are observed between northern and southern populations, their relationship with other coat parameters such as structure and texture and koala intrinsic factors such as disease status and age remain poorly understood. Aims: [1] assess key qualitative parameters of koala coat quality including colour, structure, and texture, and [2] investigate their associations with intrinsic factors such as disease status and age. Hypothesis: Koala fur is significantly influenced by intrinsic factors, with chronically diseased individuals showing altered coat quality parameters in colour, structure and texture, compared to healthy or younger counterparts. Methods: A dataset from a koala hospital containing signalment and standardised categorisation of key coat quality parameters will be used. The student will conduct descriptive data analyses with graphs. Statistical analyses will be carried out to identify correlations between the variables assessed. Significance: Specific coat characteristics can provide a valuable tool for non-invasive monitoring via remote visual assessment of koalas in the wild, potentially helping with the early detection of health concerns.
Supervisor: Dr. Viviana Gonzalez-Astudillo
