Detection of chytridiomycosis caused by batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in the endangered sardinian newt (Euproctus platycephalus) in southern Sardinia, Italy

Abstract

The chytridiomycete fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is known to be focally distributed across Europe, but has only been linked to chytridiomycosis at a few locations in Spain. Here we report the second occurrence of chytridiomycosis in European amphibians. We found a population of endangered Sardinian newts (Euproctus platycephalus) exhibiting clinical signs of disease including loss of digits and patchy, discolored skin. Molecular examination of skin samples tested positive for B. dendrobatidis. The population of E. platycephalus has been in decline on a timescale consistent with the global emergence of chytridiomycosis, and the ecology of this salamander suggests that the disease in this species warrants concern. © Wildlife Disease Association 2008.