Massive frog die off, part two?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the devastating impact of the chytrid fungus, Betrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), which has led to the extinction of approximately 200 frog species. A total of 695 frog species are known to be susceptible to Bd, highlighting the pathogen's unprecedented threat to amphibian biodiversity. Additionally, the newly identified pathogen Betrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) poses a potential risk, although there is hope for containment. The conversation also touches on environmental factors, such as human hormones from birth control pills, which further complicate the survival of frog populations in North America.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of amphibian pathogens, specifically chytridiomycosis.
  • Familiarity with the ecological impact of invasive species.
  • Knowledge of environmental contaminants affecting wildlife.
  • Awareness of the role of human activities in ecosystem disruption.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the life cycle and transmission mechanisms of Betrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd).
  • Investigate containment strategies for Betrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal).
  • Explore the effects of environmental pollutants on amphibian health.
  • Study the historical spread of Bd post-Korean War and its implications for current amphibian conservation efforts.
USEFUL FOR

Conservation biologists, ecologists, environmental scientists, and anyone involved in amphibian research or wildlife management will benefit from this discussion.

jim mcnamara
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This fungus, a frog pathogen, has caused the extinction of circa 200 species of frogs in the very recent past. Per the article, 695 species of frog are known to be (or were ) susceptible to infection. This is amazing for any pathogen, and until this fungus came to the fore was unheard of:
Betrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd)
https://news.nationalgeographic.com...cline-frogs-chytrid-fungi-bd-animals-science/

Next round of amazing pathogens:
Betrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal)
http://science.sciencemag.org/content/360/6389/604 'The hidden biodiversity of amphibian pathogens'
Something new to worry about. We are in a position to stop the spread of the newly discovered pathogen, unlike what happened with Bd after the Korean War. Bd spread worldwide.
[aside]
Maybe they can contain Bsal successfully. Bd is also thought to be one of the main drivers the massive frog die off we have seen.This goes along with estrogen and progesterone (human hormones) derived from human birth control pills moving from people to septic systems into local groundwater, and then into ponds. These molecules are teratogens for frog larvae (tadpoles).
If has been really tough growing up as frog in North America.
[/aside - because I'm not digging up citations, this is just an aside]

Both articles are very interesting and somewhat depressing. I'm biased - I had pet frogs for years.
 
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Bummer!
I have also read (long time ago, no ref.) that once Bd is in an area, it is difficult or impossible to clear it, even if all the frogs are gone, because it can also live in crayfish (without hurting them).
 
By the way, for those without full access to Science, here is a open access Science mag news article on this subject that I just found.