A study by Macquarie University and the University of Melbourne has found that heating shelters can help frogs combat chytridiomycosis effectively. This method, which allows frogs to ‘bake off’ infections, could significantly lower mortality rates and increase resistance to future infections, providing a viable conservation strategy for endangered amphibians.This simple strategy involves creating ‘hotspot’ shelters where frogs can elevate their body temperatures to kill off fungal infections.
Of chytrid-stricken species worldwide, 90 have gone extinct or are presumed extinct in the wild. Another 124 species have declined in number by more than 90 percent. “Chytrid isn’t going away, but our behavioral ecology intervention can help endangered amphibians co-exist with chytridiomycosis in their ecosystems,” Professor Shine says.The research team found artificial ‘hotspot’ shelters built from readily available materials, such as bricks and PVC greenhouses, can allow frogs to quickly ‘bake off’ infections with the chytrid fungus.“The whole thing is like a mini med spa for frogs,” says Dr. Waddle.
The study also showed that frogs who survive a chytrid infection can develop a form of acquired immunity, making them more resistant to future infections.