Close Relative of Chytrid Fungus Kills Salamanders Throughout Europe, is North America Next

Redback Salamander (Plethodon cinereus)

Northern Dusky Salamander (Desmognathus fuscus)

Blue-Spotted x Jefferson Salamander Hybrid (Abystoma laterale x jeffersonianum)

A fungus that primarily kills salamanders has been introduced to Europe from Asia through the pet trade.  If this fungus were to be introduced to North America, the effects could be devestating to a continent that has some of the most diverse salamander species assemblages in the world.  The most abundant vertebrate in the forests of northeastern North America is the Redback Salamander (Plethodon cinereus).  If this invasive fungus were introduced to our regions forests, it could alter how these critical ecosystems function.  Click here to read the New York Times Article

http://nyti.ms/1tVcSbP