Molecular detection of the causative agent of white-nose syndrome on rafinesque’s big-eared bats (Corynorhinus rafinesquii) and two species of migratory bats in the southeastern USA

摘要: Abstract Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the causal agent of white-nose syndrome (WNS), is responsible for widespread mortality hibernating bats across eastern North America. To document P. destructans exposure and infections on active during winter in southeastern US, we collected epidermal swabs from captured winters 2012–13 2013–14 mist nets set outside hibernacula Tennessee. Epidermal swab samples were eight Rafinesque's big-eared (Corynorhinus rafinesquii), six red (Lasiurus borealis), three silver-hair (Lasionycteris noctivagans). Using real-time PCR methods, identified DNA sequences skin two bats, one silver-haired bat. This first detection WNS fungus second record presence bats.