A survey for the amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in New Zealand's endemic Hochstetter's frog (Leiopelma hochstetteri)

摘要

Chytridiomycosis is an emerging infectious disease of amphibians caused by the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. It has been linked to many declines in amphibian populations worldwide, including New Zealand's native frog Leiopelma archeyi. Although chytridiomycosis has not yet been detected within any sampled population of the closely related Leiopelma hochstetteri, few populations have been surveyed. We tested for the presence of chytrid fungus in two populations of L. hochstetteri in the Auckland Region (Waitakere Ranges and Great Barrier Island). All of the individuals sampled tested negative for B. dendrobatidis, and no obviously sick frogs were found. Given our large sample size (n=124) we conclude that even if chytridiomycosis is present the prevalence is extremely low, suggesting these populations are not currently being negatively impacted by B. dendrobatidis. The apparent absence of chytridiomycosis in L. hochstetteri populations suggests this species may be resilient or immune to the fungus.