Presence of amphibian chytrid fungus ( Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis ) in rainwater suggests aerial dispersal is possible

摘要: Global spread of the pathogenic amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) may involve dispersal mechanisms not previously explored. Weather systems accompanied by strong wind and rainfall have been known to assist microbes plants animals, we considered a similar phenomenon might occur with Bd. We investigated this concept sampling rainwater from 20 precipitation events for presence Bd in Cusuco National Park, Honduras: site where high prevalence was detected stream-associated amphibians. Quantitative PCR analysis confirmed one (5 %) weather sampled, although viability cannot be ascertained molecular alone. The source distance that contaminated traveled could determined; however, collection located approximately 600 m nearest observed perennial river straight-line aerial distance. Although our results suggest atmospheric is uncommon unpredictable, even occasional short-distance transport considerably expand taxonomic diversity amphibians vulnerable exposure at risk decline, including terrestrial arboreal species are associated permanent water bodies.