Conservation translocations for amphibian species threatened by chytrid fungus: A review, conceptual framework, and recommendations

Ben C. Scheele*, Matthijs Hollanders, Emily P. Hoffmann, David A. Newell, David B. Lindenmayer, Michael McFadden, Deon J. Gilbert, Laura F. Grogan

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    37 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Emerging infectious diseases are an increasingly prominent threat to biodiversity. However, traditional methods in conservation generally have limited efficacy in the face of disease threats. Ironically, although unintentional human movement of species has facilitated the spread of pathogens, intentional conservation translocations are a promising approach to combatting disease threats under certain circumstances. Here, we summarize two decades of published literature on translocations of Australian frogs threatened by chytridiomycosis—a fungal disease that has caused amphibian declines and extinctions globally. We identify key motivations, considerations, and factors associated with outcomes, including the role of chytridiomycosis in failures. In an effort to improve success, we then propose a conceptual framework for determining when conservation translocations may be both feasible and beneficial, with a focus on understanding mechanisms favoring host persistence. Lastly, we build on our findings from the review and the conceptual framework to develop a set of recommendations to guide practitioners aiming to translocate amphibians as a conservation strategy in the face of chytridiomycosis. Although diseases pose a unique set of challenges for managing declining species in the wild, we argue that progress is likely with careful and well-informed adaptive management experiments to refine reintroduction and translocation efforts.

    Original languageEnglish
    Article numbere524
    JournalConservation Science and Practice
    Volume3
    Issue number11
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Nov 2021

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Conservation translocations for amphibian species threatened by chytrid fungus: A review, conceptual framework, and recommendations'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this