Passive air transportation of an amphibian lethal pathogen in high elevation sites: practical applications for protected areas conservation in the State of São Paulo

Abstract

The chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is recognized worldwide as one of the main causative agents of amphibian population declines and extinctions over the last 50 years. The same is valid for the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, where a portion of the amphibian species may have been extinct by this fungus. Although Bd is already widespread in the biome, new die off events may still occur. Consequently we must develop methods that allow constant, relatively inexpensive and feasible monitoring to be carried out with the help of local non-amphibian personnel. Thus, the present project aims to study water sources as an indicator of Bd infection in native anuran populations at high elevation areas (near to or above 1000 m above sea level). We propose to investigate four areas in the Atlantic Forest, within Conservation Units, in order to subsidize monitoring and conservation action plans when needed. Water from rains, fog and water bodies (lakes and streams) will be sampled using environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques as well as sampling anurans diretlty. We will correlate amphibian infection data with genetic information obtained from water samples. If we find a clear and constant relationship, we will be suggesting a novel management and conservation tool for the state protected areas. (AU)