Environmental DNA (eDNA) methods provide novel options for the detection of pathogens. The amphibian pathogens Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) and Ranavirus have been relatively understudied in Texas, US, so we applied eDNA assays for the surveillance of these pathogens in the upper Brazos River basin near the Texas panhandle. We collected water samples from five urban playa lakes and one reservoir in and around Lubbock, Texas. Quantitative PCR detected both Bd and Ranavirus at one playa lake, representing novel detection of both pathogens in the region. Based on these results, we recommend increased monitoring for the pathogens and symptoms of amphibian disease throughout the region.
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2 July 2020
Detection of the Amphibian Pathogens Chytrid Fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) and Ranavirus in West Texas, USA, Using Environmental DNA
Matthew A. Barnes,
Audrey D. Brown,
Mikaela N. Daum,
Karla A. de la Garza,
Jackson Driskill,
Kylie Garrett,
Madeleine S. Goldstein,
Alaia Luk,
Joel I. Maguire,
Robert Moke,
Emily M. Ostermaier,
Yorick M. Sanders,
Theodore Sandhu,
Aryiah Stith,
Varshini V. Suresh
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Journal of Wildlife Diseases
Vol. 56 • No. 3
July 2020
Vol. 56 • No. 3
July 2020
amphibian disease
Bd
chytrid fungus
eDNA
ranavirus
west Texas