“The Fungus Threatening Amphibians—and the Genomic Knowledge Gap Slowing Solutions”

The Monteverde Institute (MVI) recently welcomed Tobías Normann, MVI affiliated researcher and ecology master’s student from the University of Copenhagen, for a compelling presentation on one of the most urgent threats to global biodiversity: Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). This microscopic fungus causes chytridiomycosis, a disease responsible for the decline or extinction of hundreds of amphibian species worldwide.

Bd is especially destructive because:

•          It infects a wide range of amphibian species across continents.

•          It survives in moist environments without a host.

•          It causes high mortality in populations with no prior exposure.

It spreads rapidly through trade, travel, and human activity.

Bd is one of the few wildlife pathogens officially linked to species extinctions by the IUCN.

The Tropical Genomics Gap

Tropical ecosystems host 62% of vertebrates and 70% of vascular plants, yet only 40% of global genetic data represents them. This is a classic case of sampling bias: most genomic research has historically focused on temperate regions, model organisms, and commercially important species. As a result, tropical biodiversity remains vastly underrepresented in global databases.

The situation is even more stark for fungi. Despite their ecological importance in decomposition and symbiosis, only 30% of fungal genetic data comes from tropical regions. This gap hampers our ability to detect pathogens like Bd and discover new biotechnological resources. A recent study in Denmark—a country with low biodiversity—identified over 2,000 previously unknown fungal species just from soil samples. Imagine the untapped diversity in Costa Rica’s forests.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) offers a non-invasive way to detect Bd in water, sediment, or leaf litter. Using qPCR technology, researchers can amplify and quantify Bd DNA—even at very low concentrations. While powerful, eDNA has limitations: it doesn’t confirm if organisms are alive, and tropical conditions can degrade DNA quickly. It is best used alongside traditional field surveys.

What Can We Do?

Tobias emphasized that both institutional and public action are vital: support conservation groups like MVI, participate in citizen science (e.g., iNaturalist, FrogWatch), reforest land, build ponds, reduce pesticide use, and advocate for policies that prioritize ecosystem protection. The fight against Bd is not just about saving frogs—it’s about preserving the genetic and ecological richness that sustains life on Earth.

Examples:

Scientific & Institutional Actions

•          Expand eDNA and genomic monitoring in tropical regions.

•          Build international research collaborations.

•          Invest in local scientific capacity (labs, training, data sharing).

•          Prioritize open-access databases for biodiversity and disease tracking.

Public Action

•          Support conservation organizations (e.g., MVI, BEN, CCT).

•          If you live close to frog habitat, install frog saunas in a sunny place. Although they have not been tested here, it is assumed they work regardless of the frogs being Australian or Ticos.

•          Build a pond in your garden.

•          Promote and participate in citizen science platforms (like iNaturalist or FrogWatch