First report of spontaneous chytridiomycosis in frogs in Asia

Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis has been investigated worldwide because of its importance in population declines in multiple species of amphibians; however, little is known regarding the disease status of all native amphibian species in China. The present study is the first survey of chytridiomycosis in free-ranging amphibian populations in China, and it examined the possible presence of B. dendrobatidis in Rana dybowskii in northeastern China (Heilongjiang Province). R. dybowskii is mainly distributed in the northeast part of China and is intensively hunted for human consumption, making populations vulnerable to extirpation in the event of additional stresses from disease epidemics. The survey was performed in early spring of 2008, using a PCR assay, histological examination of skin samples, and zoospore culture. In total, 191 frogs were examined; thus, a 95% confidence limit for prevalence of 1.57% was selected. Our results demonstrate that R. dybowskii is currently free from chytridiomycosis in Heilongjiang, even though the natural conditions of the sampling sites are suitable for the occurrence of B. dendrobatidis. Central and local governments should implement strict management measures to prevent the escape of non-native commercial amphibian species into this area, which might endanger local populations of native species.

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 93%

Early-spring survey for Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in wild Rana dybowskii in Heilongjiang Province, China

Wei¹,

Xu²,

Zhu³

et al. 2010

“…However, direct evidence of human-mediated movement of Bd has, until recently, been lacking. Surveillance data also show that Bd has probably been introduced recently in Dominica (Garcia et al 2007), the UK (Cunningham et al 2005), New Zealand (Bell et al 2004), Hawaii (Beard & O'Neill 2005), Japan (Une et al 2008), Sardinia (Bovero et al 2008) and Mallorca (Walker et al 2008).…”

Section: New Introductionsmentioning

confidence: 99%

A molecular perspective: biology of the emerging pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis

Rosenblum

Fisher

James³

et al. 2009

Ten years after the first discovery of the chytrid pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), the catastrophic effect of Bd on wild amphibian populations is indisputable. However, a number of persistent questions remain about Bd's origin and mechanisms of pathogenicity. Here we discuss the promise of genetic and genomic tools for answering these previously intractable questions about the biology and evolutionary history of Bd. Full genomes of 2 Bd strains have recently been sequenced, and Bd research on this species using population genetics, phylogenetics, proteomics, comparative genomics and functional genomics is already underway. We review some of the insights gleaned from the first studies using these genome-scale approaches focusing particularly on Bd's genomic architecture, patterns of global genetic variation, virulence factors and genetic interactions with hosts. Avenues of future research promise to be particularly fruitful and highlight the need for integrative studies that unite genetic, ecological and spatial data in both Bd and its amphibian hosts. KEY WORDS:Genetics · Genomics · Ecological genomics · Pathogenicity · Chytrid · Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis Resale or republication not permitted without written consent of the publisherContribution to DAO Special 4 'Chytridiomycosis: an emerging disease'

“…Infection with Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis has been reported in additional captive populations around the world (Berger et al 1999, Longcore et al 1999, Mazzoni et al 2003, Une et al 2008, Marantelli et al 2004, Schloegel et al 2009). Many zoological institutions are currently involved in the captive breeding of amphibians for species re-introduction programs.…”

Section: Literature Reviewmentioning

confidence: 97%

Two amphibian diseases, chytridiomycosis and ranaviral disease, are now globally notifiable to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE): an assessment

Schloegel¹,

Daszak²,

Cunningham³

et al. 2010

121

The global trade in amphibians entails the transport of tens of millions of live animals each year. In addition to the impact harvesting wild animals can have on amphibian populations, there is mounting evidence that the emerging pathogens Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and ranaviruses, the aetiological agents of chytridiomycosis and ranaviral disease, respectively, are spread through this trade. The link between these pathogens and amphibian declines and extinctions suggests that the epidemiological impact of the trade is significant and may negatively affect conservation and trade economics. Here we present a brief assessment of the volume of the global trade in live amphibians, the risk of individuals harboring infection, and information on the recent listing by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) of chytridiomycosis and ranaviral disease in the OIE Aquatic Animal Health Code. This listing made chytridiomycosis and ranaviral disease internationally notifiable diseases and thus subject to OIE standards, which aim to assure the sanitary safety of international trade in live amphibians and their products.