Prevalence assessment of the amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis across two habitat types in East Tennessee

In light of the biodiversity crisis facing amphibian populations globally, studies investigating the pathogenic amphibian fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) are a foremost priority for biologists. Understanding effects of habitat variation on Bd prevalence is important for identifying populations that are most at risk and can help to inform management decisions. Using American Bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus) and Green Frogs (Lithobates clamitans) as study organisms, this research sought to investigate how prevalence of Bd varies between natural wetlands and urban retention ponds in East Tennessee while also examining relevant habitat factors and morphometrics. A total of 373 frogs were sampled across six retention ponds and six wetlands distributed evenly between two basin level hydrologic unit codes. Of the frogs sampled, 11 tested positive for Bd. These data provide new insights into the status of Bd prevalence and distribution in Tennessee and provide information useful in future conservation and remediation efforts.

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Author dc:creator

• Bakland, Paul-Erik M.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Wilson, Thomas P.
• Barbosa, Jose M.; Carver, Ethan A.; Reynolds, Bradley R.
• College of Arts and Sciences

• Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
• Bullfrog
• Green frog

Licence

• https://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en

Language dc:language

English, eng

Repository record dc:identifier

https://scholar.utc.edu/theses/566

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholar.utc.edu:theses-1723