Do Frogs Get Their Kicks on Route 66? Patterns of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis Infection
Author Information
Author(s): Michael J. Lannoo, Christopher Petersen, Robert E. Lovich, Priya Nanjappa, Christopher Phillips, Joseph C. Mitchell, Irene Macallister
Primary Institution: Indiana University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Is Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis acting as an epidemic or endemic in amphibian populations across U.S. Department of Defense installations?
Conclusion
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is widespread and can be considered endemic across much of North America.
Supporting Evidence
- Bd was detected on 13 of the 15 bases sampled.
- Half of the 30 amphibian species tested positive for Bd.
- 78.5% of positive samples were collected in the spring/early-summer period.
- Temperate installations had higher Bd prevalences (20.8%) than arid bases (8.5%).
Takeaway
This study found that a harmful fungus affecting frogs is common in many protected areas across the U.S., showing that it is now part of the environment there.
Methodology
A transcontinental transect was conducted along U.S. Highway 66 and Interstate 64, sampling amphibians at 15 military installations for Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis using standardized techniques.
Limitations
The study did not detect Bd at two bases, which may be due to insufficient sampling during the optimal detection period.
Participant Demographics
Amphibians from 30 species were sampled, representing about 10% of known U.S. species.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.027
Confidence Interval
8.5±11.7%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website