00:00DNA testing identified 17 plant species in droppings from greater gliders,
00:05endangered mammals that glide between trees,
00:07and that finding could change which trees matter for their habitats.
00:11University of the Sunshine Coast researchers analyzed 24 fecal samples from across southeast Queensland.
00:18Their results, published in the Journal of Mammalogy, revealed a wider diet than previously thought.
00:24Researchers used a genetic tool originally designed for koalas to identify the plants.
00:29Previously, scientists identified food by sight or watched which trees gliders ate in.
00:35But associate professor Dominique Potvin said,
00:38The methods used previously weren't particularly accurate.
00:42Gliders were generally thought to eat only eucalyptus foliage, but researchers also identified other plants.
00:48Those included acacia, casuarina, angifera, and carimbia species, expanding the known menu.
00:55Meanwhile, Potvin said gliders from different areas might eat different things, warranting further investigation.
01:02Disclosure.
01:03This video contains stock footage and content created or enhanced using AI-assisted tools.
