Let’s look at koalas and fingerprints one more time. Specifically, why do koalas have fingerprints?
My last writing on the subject, back in July 2025, discussed convergent evolution, grasping, and eucalyptus leaf selection.
In this installment, Sarah Barkley explores similar territory.
“Koalas grasp things as humans do, and they also climb vertically in trees while reaching out and grabbing food. With that being the case, their fingerprints could have developed to help them adapt to the movements. They also hang in trees and grab ahold of things while doing so, furthering their need for friction for grasping objects.
“Koalas’ fingerprints help them inspect their food to ensure it is eucalyptus before eating it. They are picky about what they eat, so being able to look at and feel everything thoroughly helps. Koalas are so picky about what they eat that they prefer eucalyptus leaves of a specific age, too.”
