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McGrath-Blaser SE, McGathey N, Pardon A, Hartmann AM, Longo AV. Invasibility of a North American soil ecosystem to amphibian-killing fungal pathogens. Proc Biol Sci 2024; 291:20232658. [PMID: 38628130 PMCID: PMC11021929 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.2658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
North American salamanders are threatened by intercontinental spread of chytridiomycosis, a deadly disease caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal). To predict potential dispersal of Bsal spores to salamander habitats, we evaluated the capacity of soil microbial communities to resist invasion. We determined the degree of habitat invasibility using soils from five locations throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a region with a high abundance of susceptible hosts. Our experimental design consisted of replicate soil microcosms exposed to different propagule pressures of the non-native pathogen, Bsal, and an introduced but endemic pathogen, B. dendrobatidis (Bd). To compare growth and competitive interactions, we used quantitative PCR, live/dead cell viability assays, and full-length 16S rRNA sequencing. We found that soil microcosms with intact bacterial communities inhibited both Bsal and Bd growth, but inhibitory capacity diminished with increased propagule pressure. Bsal showed greater persistence than Bd. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) identified the family Burkolderiaceae as increasing in relative abundance with the decline of both pathogens. Although our findings provide evidence of environmental filtering in soils, such barriers weakened in response to pathogen type and propagule pressure, showing that habitats vary their invasibility based on properties of their local microbial communities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Natalie McGathey
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Allison Pardon
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Arik M. Hartmann
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Ana V. Longo
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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2
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Riascos-Flores LR, Bonilla J, Naranjo-Briceño L, Apunte-Ramos K, Reyes-Ortega GC, Cabrera M, Cáceres-Andrade JF, Carrera-Gonzalez A, Yánez-Galarza JK, Siavichay Pesántez F, Oyagata-Cachimuel LA, Goethals P, Celi J, Van der Heyden C, Ortega-Andrade HM. Field-based molecular detection of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in critically endangered Atelopus toads and aquatic habitats in Ecuador. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299246. [PMID: 38484016 PMCID: PMC10939218 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is a lethal fungal species that parasitizes vertebrates and is associated with the worldwide decline of amphibian populations. The development of sensitive, rapid detection methods, particularly DNA-based techniques, is critical for effective management strategies. This study evaluates the efficacy of DNA extraction and a portable PCR device in a mountable field laboratory setup for detecting Bd near the habitats of three critically endangered Atelopus toad species in Ecuador. We collected skin swabs from Atelopus balios, A. nanay, and A. bomolochos, and environmental DNA (eDNA) samples from streams in Andean and coastal regions of Ecuador. For eDNA, a comparison was made with duplicates of the samples that were processed in the field and in a standard university laboratory. Our findings revealed Bd detection in eDNA and swabs from 6 of 12 water samples and 10 of 12 amphibian swab samples. The eDNA results obtained in the field laboratory were concordant with those obtained under campus laboratory conditions. These findings highlight the potential of field DNA-based monitoring techniques for detecting Bd in amphibian populations and their aquatic habitats, particularly in remote areas. Furthermore, this research aligns with the National Action Plan for the Conservation of Ecuadorian Amphibians and contributes to the global effort to control this invasive and deadly fungus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenin R. Riascos-Flores
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Gent University, Gent, Belgium
- Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL/Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Centro de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas del Ecuador, Campus Gustavo Galindo Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Julio Bonilla
- Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL/Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Centro de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas del Ecuador, Campus Gustavo Galindo Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Leopoldo Naranjo-Briceño
- Applied Microbiology Research Group, Life Sciences Faculty, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
- Fungal Biotech Lab, Spora Biotech, Huechuraba, Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Katherine Apunte-Ramos
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Lab, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
| | - Grace C. Reyes-Ortega
- Biogeography and Spatial Ecology Research Group, Life Sciences Faculty, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
| | - Marcela Cabrera
- Laboratorio Nacional de Referencia del Agua, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Ecuador
- University of Valencia, Paterna, Spain
| | | | | | - Jomira K. Yánez-Galarza
- Applied Microbiology Research Group, Life Sciences Faculty, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
- Biogeography and Spatial Ecology Research Group, Life Sciences Faculty, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
| | | | | | - Peter Goethals
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Gent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Jorge Celi
- Water and Aquatic Resources Research Group, School of Earth and Water Sciences, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Ecuador
| | - Christine Van der Heyden
- Department of Biosciences and Industrial Technology, Health and Water Technology Research Centre, HOGENT—University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Gent, Belgium
| | - H. Mauricio Ortega-Andrade
- Biogeography and Spatial Ecology Research Group, Life Sciences Faculty, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
- Herpetology Division, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
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3
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Berger L, Skerratt LF, Kosch TA, Brannelly LA, Webb RJ, Waddle AW. Advances in Managing Chytridiomycosis for Australian Frogs: Gradarius Firmus Victoria. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2024; 12:113-133. [PMID: 38358840 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-021122-100823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Extensive knowledge gains from research worldwide over the 25 years since the discovery of chytridiomycosis can be used for improved management. Strategies that have saved populations in the short term and/or enabled recovery include captive breeding, translocation into disease refugia, translocation from resistant populations, disease-free exclosures, and preservation of disease refuges with connectivity to previous habitat, while antifungal treatments have reduced mortality rates in the wild. Increasing host resistance is the goal of many strategies under development, including vaccination and targeted genetic interventions. Pathogen-directed strategies may be more challenging but would have broad applicability. While the search for the silver bullet solution continues, we should value targeted local interventions that stop extinction and buy time for evolution of resistance or development of novel solutions. As for most invasive species and infectious diseases, we need to accept that ongoing management is necessary. For species continuing to decline, proactive deployment and assessment of promising interventions are more valid than a hands-off, do-no-harm approach that will likely allow further extinctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
| | - Tiffany A Kosch
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
| | - Laura A Brannelly
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
| | - Rebecca J Webb
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
| | - Anthony W Waddle
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
- Applied Biosciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia;
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4
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López-Flórez C, Ruíz MAO, Gómez-Ramírez E. Effect of sublethal concentrations of glyphosate-based herbicides (Roundup Active®) on skin of the tropical frog (Dendropsophus molitor). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:109618-109626. [PMID: 37775634 PMCID: PMC10622380 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29816-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
In Colombia, glyphosate (GP) is used to control weeds, with Roundup Active® being the most widely used. This use has affected aquatic ecosystems, causing malformations in amphibians. The Savannah frog (D. molitor) is a tropical frog inhabiting the mountain of Colombia. In the present study, we determined the effect of sublethal concentrations of GP (Roundup Active®) on the skin of D. molitor. Twenty-four tadpoles were exposed to concentrations of GP (T1: 0, T2: 1.4, T3: 3.6, and T4: 5.6 a.e mg/L) during 31 days. In 10 individuals per treatment, two skin regions were evaluated: dorsal cranial and caudal ventral to determine histopathological alterations. Morphometric analysis of the layers of the skin was performed: epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis-muscular. T1 did not present histopathological alterations. Since T2 was identified, glandular cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy increased melanophores and melanin accumulations in the highest concentrations of GP. The ultrastructure revealed an increase in excretory glands in the dermis. In the other layers, an increase of melanophores and melanocyte clusters was observed accompanied by vacuolization of basal cells. The morphometry showed an increase in the thickness of the dermis in the dorso-cranial region in T2 compared to the other treatments, while the ventral caudal region exhibited a variation in the thickness of the dermis from T2 and a decrease in T4. Despite evaluating sublethal concentrations, the skin of D. molitor tadpoles presents histopathological, ultrastructural, and morphometric alterations that could affect the survival of the species in the natural environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalina López-Flórez
- Faculty of Applied Basic Sciences, Universidad Militar Nueva Granada, Cajicá, Km 3, Cajica, Colombia.
| | - Monica Andrea Ortíz Ruíz
- Faculty of Applied Basic Sciences, Universidad Militar Nueva Granada, Cajicá, Km 3, Cajica, Colombia
| | - Edwin Gómez-Ramírez
- Faculty of Applied Basic Sciences, Universidad Militar Nueva Granada, Cajicá, Km 3, Cajica, Colombia
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5
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Jacinto-Maldonado M, González-Salazar C, Basanta MD, García-Peña GE, Saucedo B, Lesbarrères D, Meza-Figueroa D, Stephens CR. Water Pollution Increases the Risk of Chytridiomycosis in Mexican Amphibians. ECOHEALTH 2023:10.1007/s10393-023-01631-0. [PMID: 37140741 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-023-01631-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Chytridiomycosis is affecting amphibians worldwide, causing the decline and extinction of several amphibian populations. The disease is caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), a multihost pathogen living in freshwater habitats. While several environmental factors have been associated with the prevalence of Bd and its virulence, the effects of water quality on the pathogen are not clear yet. Some evidence suggests that water pollution may reduce amphibians' immune response and increase prevalence of Bd. To explore this hypothesis, we analyzed the relationship between water quality and the presence of Bd by using spatial data mining of 150 geolocations of Bd in amphibians from 9 families where Bd positive specimens have been previously reported, and water quality in 4,202 lentic and lotic water bodies in Mexico from 2010 to 2021. Our model showed that in the 3 main families where Bd was recorded, its presence is high in locations with low water quality, i.e., water polluted likely contaminated with urban and industrial waste. Using this model, we inferred areas suitable for Bd in Mexico; mainly in poorly studied areas along the gulf and on the pacific slope. We further argue that actions to reduce water pollution should become an integral part of public policies to prevent the spread of Bd and protect amphibians from this deadly pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jacinto-Maldonado
- Departamento de Geología, División de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Sonora, Hermosillo Sonora, México.
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Mexico City, México.
| | - C González-Salazar
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Mexico City, México
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Atmósfera y Cambio Climático, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Mexico City, México
| | - M D Basanta
- Department of Biology, University of Nevada Reno, Reno, NV, USA
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de Mexico, México
| | - G E García-Peña
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Mexico City, México
| | - B Saucedo
- IDEXX Laboratories B.V, Holland, The Netherlands
| | - D Lesbarrères
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Greater Sudbury, Canada
| | - D Meza-Figueroa
- Departamento de Geología, División de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Sonora, Hermosillo Sonora, México
| | - C R Stephens
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Mexico City, México
- Instituto de Ciencias Nucleares, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Av. Universidad 3000, Mexico City, México
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Deknock A, Pasmans F, van Leeuwenberg R, Van Praet S, Bruneel S, Lens L, Croubels S, Martel A, Goethals P. Alternative food sources interfere with removal of a fungal amphibian pathogen by zooplankton. J Appl Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arne Deknock
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology Faculty of Bioscience Engineering Ghent University Ghent Belgium
| | - Frank Pasmans
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Poultry Diseases Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University Merelbeke Belgium
| | - Robby van Leeuwenberg
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Poultry Diseases Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University Merelbeke Belgium
| | - Sarah Van Praet
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Poultry Diseases Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University Merelbeke Belgium
| | - Stijn Bruneel
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology Faculty of Bioscience Engineering Ghent University Ghent Belgium
| | - Luc Lens
- Department of Biology Faculty of Sciences Ghent University Ghent Belgium
| | - Siska Croubels
- Department of Pharmacology Toxicology and Biochemistry Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University Merelbeke Belgium
| | - An Martel
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Poultry Diseases Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University Merelbeke Belgium
| | - Peter Goethals
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology Faculty of Bioscience Engineering Ghent University Ghent Belgium
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