Thumsová, B., Bosch, J. & Rosa, G.M. (2023) Amphibian crisis and the impact of emerging pathogens. Evolutionary ecology of amphibians (ed. by G. Moreno-Rueda and M.Comas), 54-102. CRC Press, Boca Raton. ISBN:9781003093312.
Over two decades of unprecedented research investment at a global scale, illustrate the paradigm shift in the way we perceive emerging diseases and their impact on wildlife. Particularly amphibians have become iconic examples of disease-induced biodiversity loss. The amphibian chytrid fungi and ranaviruses have been involved in catastrophic population declines and local extinctions worldwide. Although both pathogens are able to infect hundreds of species, the final outcome greatly depends on synergistic interactions between the host, the pathogen(s) and the environment. Here, we present a comprehensive compilation of current knowledge, focusing on how the wide range of biotic and abiotic factors may mediate the impact of these pathogens on amphibian assemblages. Finally, we review how the understanding of the interactions between all of these components can drive the development of an effective strategy to reduce the harmful impact of emerging infectious diseases on amphibians.
Gonçalo M. Rosa Conservation in Socio-Ecological Systems - CSES
