27th Annual Student Research Conference
Effects of Seasonal Change on Chytrid Fungus Infections in Amphibians
Jessica N. Plaggenberg
Dr. Chad Montgomery, Faculty Mentor
Amphibian populations have been declining globally for decades. The chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), has played a major role in this decline. Several studies have indicated that the optimal growth conditions for Bd are mild temperatures between 17 - 25C with high humidity. To determine the effect of seasons on Bd infection levels we sampled amphibians for Bd at four ponds in the Big Creek Conservation Area, Adair County, Missouri over a one year period. We tested for Bd using a standard protocol of DNA isolation and PCR amplification using known Bd primers. We used regression analysis and ANOVA to determine the effects of season, size, and species on Bd prevalence. The information gathered from this project can be used in implementing management practices at Big Creek and surrounding areas to help slow the spread of this harmful pathogen.
Keywords: amphibians, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, seasonal, extinction
Topic(s):Biology
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 303-1
Location: MG 1098
Time: 1:00