Virulence and Pathogenicity of Chytrid Fungi Causing Amphibian Extinctions

Ancient enzootic associations between wildlife and their infections allow evolution to innovate mechanisms of pathogenicity that are counterbalanced by host responses. However, erosion of barriers to pathogen dispersal by globalization leads to the infection of hosts that have not evolved effective...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Annual review of microbiology 2021-10, Vol.75 (1), p.673-693
Main Authors: Fisher, Matthew C, Pasmans, Frank, Martel, An
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Abiotic factors
Adaptation
amphibian
Batrachochytrium
chytrid
Chytridiomycosis
Dispersal
Evolution
Fungi
fungus
Globalization
Infections
infectious disease
Pathogenicity
Pathogens
Virulence
Wildlife
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Summary:Ancient enzootic associations between wildlife and their infections allow evolution to innovate mechanisms of pathogenicity that are counterbalanced by host responses. However, erosion of barriers to pathogen dispersal by globalization leads to the infection of hosts that have not evolved effective resistance and the emergence of highly virulent infections. Global amphibian declines driven by the rise of chytrid fungi and chytridiomycosis are emblematic of emerging infections. Here, we review how modern biological methods have been used to understand the adaptations and counteradaptations that these fungi and their amphibian hosts have evolved. We explore the interplay of biotic and abiotic factors that modify the virulence of these infections and dissect the complexity of this disease system. We highlight progress that has led to insights into how we might in the future lessen the impact of these emerging infections.
ISSN:0066-4227
1545-3251
DOI:10.1146/annurev-micro-052621-124212