Wildlife

Wild Amphibian Chytrid Disease and Population Collapse

Chytrid fungal diseases have caused the worst vertebrate extinction crisis in recorded history, devastating amphibian populations.

Key Facts

Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) has caused declines in over 500 amphibian species
At least 90 amphibian species are believed extinct due to chytrid fungal infection
Bd spread globally through the pet and research animal trade in the 20th century
Biosafety protocols at amphibian breeding facilities can prevent spread between populations
Probiotics applied to amphibian skin show promise in field protection against Bd

Welfare Considerations

Chytrid disease causes death through disrupting electrolyte balance via the skin - amphibians die from heart failure as sodium and potassium levels fall. It is a prolonged and distressing death affecting millions of individuals across hundreds of species. Biosecurity to prevent further spread and probiotic research are urgent priorities.

What You Can Do

Never release pet amphibians into the wild - they may carry pathogens
Follow biosecurity protocols when working in amphibian habitat (boot cleaning etc)
Support amphibian conservation organisations researching and applying probiotic treatments
Participate in amphibian recording schemes that monitor population trends