Methodology for investigating the distribution and determinants of Chytridiomycosis
Conference Publication ResearchOnline@JCUAbstract
Chytridiomycosis is an important emerging pandemic infectious disease of amphibians. Investigating this disease has been challenging due to a lack of knowledge and expertise in studying disease in amphibians in general, and because of the novel nature of the pathogen, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), which is the first chytrid fungus known to cause disease in vertebrates. Bd is difficult to isolate and has a diverse and wide host range, and frog population sizes are largely unknown and the ability to find frogs varies with climatic conditions. We have adapted veterinary and zoological methods and expertise to examine the distribution and determinants of chytridiomycosis. Our studies of the determinants of chytridiomycosis have involved research at multiple levels. We have examined correlations of disease prevalence with environmental, climatic and host variables. Within populations, we use mark-recapture methods to estimate incidence and mortality rates and relate these to possible determinants. At the level of the individual host, we use radio telemetry to examine the effects of host behaviour and microenvironment on infection and transmission mechanisms. In the laboratory, experimental infections are used to test and demonstrate relationships between determinants and chytridiomycosis. It is expected that understanding the epidemiology of this disease will lead to better management of chytridiomycosis and improved conservation for frogs.
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ISVEE 11: 11th Symposium of the International Society for Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics
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1177-360X
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4
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Cairns, QLD, Australia
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International Symposia on Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics
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Cairns, QLD, Australia
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