25. Field Surveys for detection of Chytridiomycosis in North Georgia Amphibian Populations

Abstract

Keywords: Chytridiomycosis, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, amphibians, conservation, north Georgia, disease

Chytridiomycosis is a fungal disease caused by the pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), which is a contributing factor to global amphibian population declines. Although Bd is distributed globally, little research has been conducted on north Georgia’s amphibian populations. We surveyed for the presence of Bd in amphibian populations in the northeast Georgia Piedmont region at Tumbling Creek Preserve, on the University of North Georgia campus and at Elachee Nature Center in Oakwood, GA using active night searches and passive sampling techniques from spring 2013 through fall 2014. During night searches, amphibians were located in wetlands and captured by hand. We used poly-vinyl chloride (PVC) pipe traps for passive sampling during the day. Following captures, we collected environmental and physical data from each individual, swabbed the skin for Bd detection using sterile polyester tipped swabs, and released individuals at their capture site. We changed gloves and disinfected equipment between each capture. Collected skin swabs were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing to determine the presence of Bd. To date, PCR techniques have detected a positive Bd sample at the Tumbling Creek site. Sampling will continue throughout 2015 to contribute to conservation efforts and knowledge of Bd in the region.