How Host Behavior Affects Disease in Tadpoles
Author Information
Author(s): Matthew D. Venesky, Jacob L. Kerby, Andew Storfer, Matthew J. Parris
Primary Institution: University of Memphis
Hypothesis
Can differences in host behavior drive patterns of disease prevalence in tadpoles?
Conclusion
The study found that aggregation behavior in tadpoles may increase disease prevalence and that both species of tadpoles were negatively impacted by the disease, showing reduced growth and development.
Supporting Evidence
- Tadpoles raised in the presence of the pathogen were smaller and less developed than those raised in disease-free conditions.
- A. fowleri mesocosms had higher Bd prevalence compared to H. versicolor mesocosms.
- Aggregation behavior in A. fowleri increased Bd transmission.
Takeaway
Tadpoles that stick together can get sick more easily, and being sick makes them grow slower.
Methodology
The study used experimental mesocosms to observe the effects of the pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis on two species of tadpoles under different conditions.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the infection protocol and the assumption of starting prevalence may underestimate actual transmission.
Limitations
The study had a low prevalence of infection and one mesocosm was excluded due to an algal bloom that killed all tadpoles.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on two species of tadpoles: Fowler's toads (Anaxyrus fowleri) and grey treefrogs (Hyla versicolor).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0025
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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