Australian scientists unveiled three test-tube koala cubs today as part of an artificial insemination programme to preserve the vulnerable mammal.
They said the programme would lead to the creation of the world's first koala sperm bank, letting researchers screen out koala diseases.
Scientists from the University of Queensland said 12 koala cubs were produced using test-tube insemination as part of a joint project which includes the Zoological Society of London.
The koalas were conceived using a new breeding technology that uses sperm mixed with a special solution to prolong the sperm's shelf-life, said Steve Johnston, the project leader and University of Queensland reproductive biologist.
"Eight of the 12 current test-tube joeys were born following the artificial insemination of freshly diluted sperm samples," Johnston said in a statement. "The next vital step is the use of chilled sperm and then thawed frozen sperm from the sperm bank."
The koala is not classified as an endangered species but it is listed as vulnerable to extinction in parts of two Australian states, Queensland and New South Wales.
