PCR testing service for detection of Chytridiomycosis  

in local amphibian populations

Global amphibian declines are a concern to conservation biologists throughout the world and unfortunately, southern Arizona is no exception. Of greatest concern have been the rapid decline and/or extirpation of several species in the genus Rana. Declines have been associated with climate change, pollution, human development, and pathogens - most notably chytridiomycosis, "chytrid fungus". Saguaro National Park is one of the last strong holds for the Lowland Leopard Frog (Rana yavapaiensis), which prior to human development used to be common throughout the Tucson Basin. Lowland leopard frogs are a Species of Special Concern in Arizona and a Priority Vulnerable Species in the Sonoran Desert Protection Plan. At SNP, this species has been identified as one of three indicators of the ecosystem health of the park. Although the frog is not a federally threatened or endangered species, many populations have disappeared from southern Arizona, as well as from neighboring states, in recent years. 

One of the greatest contributions HOGL can bring to this effort is complimentary or affordable PCR testing for chytridiomycosis to researchers studying any aspect amphibian biology. Monitioring the incidence of this disease will assist local land managers in conservation efforts of desert amphibians. HOGL provides custom swabs and buffer tubes for sample collection.

For More Info, Please contact:         

Taylor Edwards
Assistant Staff Scientist
University of Arizona
Arizona Research Laboratories
Human Origins Genotyping Laboratory
Thomas W. Keating Bioresearch Building
1657 E. Helen Street, room 111
Tucson, Arizona 85721
Lab: 520 621-9791
Office: 520 626-3645
520 626-4824 (Fax)
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Sonoran Herpetologist article on chytrid testing at HOGL: Chytrid Testing.pdf