Distribution and risk factors for spread of amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Australia

A study reveals that the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area (TWWHA) remains largely free of the amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), with only 3% of surveyed sites testing positive, despite providing optimal conditions for the pathogen. In contrast, surrounding areas with human disturbance—characterized by gravel roads, forests, and altitudes under 1000 meters—showed a 52% infection rate. The research suggests anthropogenic activities may facilitate Bd spread, while walking tracks in remote regions were strongly associated with its absence. These findings imply that the TWWHA’s inaccessible nature and lack of Bd could make disease control feasible, given that Tasmanian frogs reproduce in ponds rather than streams.

Pauza, M., Driessen, M., & Skerratt, L. (2010). Distribution and risk factors for spread of amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Australia. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms, 92(3), 193–199. https://doi.org/10.3354/dao02212