Massive frog die off, part two?

  • Thread starter jim mcnamara
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In summary, this fungus, known as Betrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), has caused the extinction of approximately 200 species of frogs in recent years. According to research, it is capable of infecting 695 species of frogs, making it an extremely dangerous pathogen. Another fungus, Betrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal), has also been discovered and has the potential to cause similar devastation. However, unlike Bd, it is believed that Bsal can be contained before it spreads worldwide. Bd has been linked to the decline of amphibian populations, along with human hormones from birth control pills that end up in local water systems. Once Bd is present in an area, it
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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).
 
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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.
 

Related to Massive frog die off, part two?

1. What caused the massive frog die off?

The exact cause of the massive frog die off is still being investigated, but it is believed to be a combination of factors such as habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and disease.

2. Are all frog species affected by the die off?

While the majority of frog species have been impacted by the die off, not all species are affected in the same way. Some species may be more resilient to the factors contributing to the die off, while others may be more vulnerable.

3. How does the frog die off affect the ecosystem?

The frog die off can have a significant impact on the ecosystem as frogs play important roles in maintaining balance and health in their habitats. Their decline can lead to disruptions in food chains, nutrient cycling, and insect control.

4. Can the frog population recover from the die off?

It is possible for the frog population to recover from the die off, but it will depend on the success of conservation efforts and addressing the contributing factors. It may also take time for the population to rebound and reach sustainable levels.

5. What can be done to prevent future frog die offs?

To prevent future frog die offs, it is important to address the contributing factors such as habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. This can be done through conservation efforts, sustainable land use practices, and reducing pollution levels. It is also important to monitor frog populations and address any emerging diseases or threats as soon as possible.

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