Evaluating a Commonly Traded Frog (Kaloula pulchra) as a Vector for the Pathogenic Fungus, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans
Abstract
Worldwide amphibians have seen a massive decline due to climate change, habitat destruction and disease. One of these diseases caused by the emerging fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal), poses a large risk to salamander species. Bsal has yet to be detected in North America, a global hotspot for salamander diversity. However, it has spread through Europe via the amphibian trade, with devastating consequences for some European salamander species. The international pet trade could therefore act as a gateway for Bsal spreading into North America. One of the most common pet trade species imported into North America is the chubby frog (Kaloula pulchra). Kaloula pulchra is native to Southern Asia, a region where Bsal appears to be endemic, and may be a potential vector for the introduction of Bsal to North America. We conducted a controlled experimental exposure to assess the susceptibility of the K. pulchra to Bsal. Two treatment groups were assembled: 12 K. pulchra were exposed to Bsal zoospores in the laboratory and 3 unexposed frogs serving as a control group. Some of the frogs exposed to Bsal developed lesions consistent with Bsal infection and two of these animals died. Based on these results, K. pulchra may be a potential vector for the introduction of Bsal to North America. Further research is needed to refine predictions about the risk of Bsal introduction through the international pet trade; these predictions can be used to inform policy regulating amphibian imports and develop guidelines for clean trade practices.
About the Presenters
Monica Draculan
Monica Draculan is a recent graduate from WSUV with a BS in Biology. She started as a research intern during undergrad and is currently working as the lab manager in Dr. Piovia-Scott’s community ecology lab. After joining the lab her interest in wildlife conservation and diseases has grown. She has assisted and led experiments evaluating the susceptibility of native amphibian species from the Pacific States to a pathogenic fungus called Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans.
Luke Slind
Luke Slind is an undergraduate junior in the biological sciences program. He grew up in Longview, Washington and has enjoyed attending a university close to home. Luke works in Dr. Jonah Piovia-Scott’s lab as a research intern. In the lab, his primary role is to care for the animals and to help implement laboratory protocols. He hopes to utilize the laboratory skills he has gained in a career upon graduation. Luke has been fascinated with reptiles and amphibians since he could barely walk. This passion has turned into an educational goal and career path. Luke continues to enjoy the outdoors as he is constantly hiking and searching for reptiles and amphibians.
Matthew J. Lewis
Matt Lewis is a graduating senior in the biological sciences program. As an undergraduate researcher in Piovia-Scott’s community ecology lab he helped evaluate the susceptibility of native amphibian species to the pathogenic chytrid fugus, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal). Matt specializes in aseptic culturing techniques and is in charge of maintaining and harvesting Bsal cultures.