Widespread Elevational Occurrence of Antifungal Bacteria in Andean Amphibians Decimated by Disease: A Complex Role for Skin Symbionts in Defense Against Chytridiomycosis

Research in Manu National Park reveals that antifungal bacteria are widely distributed among Andean amphibians, offering potential protection against chytridiomycosis. The study identified 20 bacterial isolates with anti-Bd (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) properties, including previously unknown species, across elevations from 560 to 3695 meters. These bacteria were found in both aquatic and terrestrial breeding frogs, with inhibitory effects varying significantly. The proportion of anti-Bd isolates was notably low at mid-elevations, where amphibian declines have been most severe, and among highly susceptible species. This suggests a complex interplay between host susceptibility and bacterial symbionts in disease defense. The study highlights the potential role of skin microbiota in mitigating chytridiomycosis, even in regions severely affected by the disease.

Catenazzi, A., Flechas, S. V., Burkart, D., Hooven, N. D., Townsend, J., & Vredenburg, V. T. (2018). Widespread Elevational Occurrence of Antifungal Bacteria in Andean Amphibians Decimated by Disease: A Complex Role for Skin Symbionts in Defense Against Chytridiomycosis. Frontiers in Microbiology, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2018.00465