Which exotic animal, introduced in Australia, reached plague proportions, and was finally brought under control only after the purposeful introduction of a disease that affected only this particular introduced species?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best choice is rabbits. After their introduction in 1859 for hunting purposes, rabbits multiplied rapidly and caused extensive damage to crops and native vegetation. They reached plague proportions and efforts to control them were unsuccessful. In 1950, the myxoma virus was intentionally introduced to control the rabbit population. The virus had devastating effects on the rabbit population, causing a sudden decrease in numbers. However, over time, the rabbit population has slowly rebounded and remains a pest species in some areas of Australia.

Which Exotic Animal, Introduced in Australia, Reached Plague Proportions, and Was