Emerging infectious diseases represent a key problem for the survival of amphibian populations. Declines related to infections of the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and Ranavirus have been described in several areas of Northern Spain, including protected areas. Co-infection—the simultaneous infection of a host by multiple pathogen species—can increase the susceptibility to subsequent infections. Here, we describe a case of triple dermocystid-ranavirus-chytrid fungus co-infection in a specimen of palmate newt (Lissotriton helveticus) from a protected wetland of North-western Spain. Leer más.

Son infinidad los nombres científicos basados en seres mitológicos relacionados con el mundo marino o las aguas en general. Estoy seguro de que hay más de los que cito, pero iré encadenando algunos como buenamente pueda. Leer más.

The designation of taxonomic units has important implications for the understanding and conservation of biodiversity. Eurasian vipers are a monophyletic group of viperid snakes (Serpentes, Viperinae), currently comprising four genera (Daboia, Macrovipera, Montivipera and Vipera) and up to 40 species. Taxonomic units have been described using a wide variety of methods and criteria, and consequently, considerable controversy still surrounds the validity of some currently listed species. In order to promote a consensus- and evidence-based taxonomy of Eurasian vipers, we analysed published mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences for this group to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships among currently recognized viper species. Leer más.

A fatal viral disease continues to impact Florida freshwater turtles, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is asking the public to assist the ongoing investigation by reporting sick and dead turtles. Beginning in the St. Johns River watershed region in 2018, virus-associated turtle mortalities have apparently expanded to the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in 2020. Researchers continue to receive reports of sick and dead turtles from Brevard County. Additional turtle mortalities have been reported from Orlando, Lakeland and the Lake Wales region (e.g. Lake Kissimmee and Tiger Lake). The FWC is collaborating with wildlife rehabilitation centers statewide in the submission of samples from Florida softshell turtles and cooters (Peninsula and Florida red-bellied) for testing. Leer más.

To celebrate World Frog Day on 20 March, the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (www.arc-trust.org) has devised this fiendish but fun frog-themed quiz. Take a few minutes to test your knowledge of the wonderful world of frogs! Leer más.