Factors Contributing to Bd (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) Susceptibility in Columbia Spotted Frogs (Rana luteiventris)
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Authors
Cortner, Matthew
Flynn, Alex
Date of Issue
2023-04-28
Type
Presentation
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Abstract
The fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) (Figure 1.) is the known causal agent of chytridiomycosis, a disease responsible for catastrophic amphibian declines across the world (Crawford et al. 2010). Bd is a saprotrophic fungus and is one of two known species within its Order understood to parasitize vertebrates (Rosenblum et al. 2010). In amphibians, Bd is able to penetrate and reproduce within the epidermis, leading to fungal infection throughout the skin (Berger et al. 2005). Susceptibility to Bd infection varies significantly between amphibian species and individuals and is influenced by many factors that may play a role in disease resistance, including the effect of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), cutaneous bacterial communities, and various environmental parameters. The goal of this preliminary research project is to illuminate the cumulative, multifaceted impact of these factors on frog survival (Figure 2.). For this project, Columbia spotted frogs (Rana luteiventris) were used as the model organism due to their relative resistance to lethal Bd infection.