Widespread presence of the pathogenic fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in wild amphibian communities in Madagascar
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Nature Publishing Group
Abstract
Amphibian chytridiomycosis, an emerging infectious disease caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium
dendrobatidis (Bd), has been a significant driver of amphibian declines. While globally widespread, Bd had
not yet been reported from within Madagascar.Wedocument surveys conducted across the country between
2005 and 2014, showing Bd ’s first record in 2010. Subsequently, Bd was detected in multiple areas, with
prevalence reaching up to 100%. Detection of Bd appears to be associated with mid to high elevation sites
and to have a seasonal pattern, with greater detectability during the dry season. Lineage-based PCR was
performed on a subset of samples. While some did not amplify with any lineage probe, when a positive signal
was observed, samples were most similar to the Global Panzootic Lineage (BdGPL). These results may
suggest that Bd arrived recently, but do not exclude the existence of a previously undetected endemic Bd
genotype. Representatives of all native anuran families have tested Bd-positive, and exposure trials confirm
infection by Bd is possible. Bd’s presence could pose significant threats to Madagascar’s unique
‘‘megadiverse’’ amphibians.
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Bletz, M.C. et al. 2015. Widespread presence of the pathogenic fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in wild amphibian communities in Madagascar. Scientific reports, 5:art. #8633. [https://doi.org/10.1038/srep08633]