Skin-Invading Fungus from Europe May Destroy American Salamander and Newt Populations

A deadly disease is sweeping across the amphibian population in parts of Europe. The disease, which is wiping out salamanders in particular, is predicted to reach the U.S. through the international wildlife trade unless steps are taken to prevent its advance.

The disease in question is a fungus, called Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans. First discovered last year, the fungus probably first originated in Southeast Asia about 30 million years ago and eventually reached Europe through the international trade in Asian newts, which are popular for pet owners. The fungus itself is lethal to about a dozen European and North American salamander and newt species, which makes it extremely important to contain.

While the fungus has yet to reach the Americas, though, there's a high potential for it doing so. Chinese fire belly newts are known carriers of the fungus, and more than 2.3 million of them were imported into the U.S. for the pet trade between 2001 and 2009. Needless to say, this doesn't bode well for containing its spread.

The fungus works by rapidly invading salamanders' skin, which plays a crucial role in the animals' respiratory system. The fungus likely interferes with the amphibians' breathing and their ability to absorb water and essential minerals.

Yet there is some good news. It's possible that there's still time to contain this fungus and prevent its spread to North America.

"If scientists and policy makers can work together on this, we have a rare opportunity to stop an epidemic from spreading around the globe with potentially deadly effect," said Karen Lips, one of the researchers, in a news release.

The more globalized the world becomes, the more biodiversity will be challenged by diseases. Yet by taken steps and establishing surveillance networks, it may be possible to prevent the spread of these diseases.

The findings are published in the journal Science.