Bd

Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis

Also known as: Chytrid Fungus, Amphibian Chytrid

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Phylum Chytridiomycota

Family Batrachochytriaceae

Conservation Major conservation threat; subject of global research and mitigation efforts

Complete Taxonomy

Kingdom: Fungi

Phylum: Chytridiomycota

Class: Chytridiomycetes

Order: Rhizophydiales

Family: Batrachochytriaceae

Genus: Batrachochytrium

Species: B. dendrobatidis

Description

Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is one of the most devastating wildlife pathogens ever documented, causing chytridiomycosis in amphibians. Since its emergence in the late 20th century, it has driven over 90 species to extinction and caused population declines in hundreds more, making it the most destructive fungal pathogen to biodiversity. It infects amphibian skin, disrupting essential functions and often leading to death.

Physical Characteristics

Cap Shape: Microscopic; exists as zoospores and sporangia in amphibian skin

Cap Color: Not visible to naked eye

Size: Zoospores ~3-5 micrometers; zoosporangia 10-20 micrometers

Gill Attachment: N/A

Spore Print: N/A

Stipe: Produces motile zoospores with single flagellum

Habitat: Skin of amphibians, aquatic environments

Fruiting Season: Continuous in infected hosts

Distribution

Global pandemic; found on all continents with amphibians

Habitat

Obligate parasite of amphibian skin. Survives in water and moist environments. Thrives in cool, wet conditions (17-25°C optimal).

Ecological Role

Devastating amphibian pathogen causing global pandemic of chytridiomycosis. Responsible for greatest vertebrate biodiversity loss attributed to disease. Alters amphibian community structure and ecosystem function.

Cultural Significance

Central focus of amphibian conservation efforts globally. Model for studying emerging infectious diseases and wildlife pandemics. Highlights risks of global trade in wildlife. Subject of intensive research for potential treatments and mitigation.

Fascinating Facts

Caused over 90 amphibian extinctions since 1980s
Affected over 500 amphibian species
Likely spread globally through wildlife trade
Some populations showing signs of resistance
No cure exists for infected wild populations
Can persist in environment without hosts
Closely related species (B. salamandrivorans) threatens salamanders
Origins possibly in Korean Peninsula
Climate change may be exacerbating impacts