Queensland frogs show mixed recovery from deadly chytrid fungus, study finds
Environmental DNA testing revealed that two endangered Wet Tropics frogs have expanded their range, while a third remains confined to a single site.
A team from James Cook University sampled water across eleven spots in the Daintree Rainforest to monitor eDNA of three frog species hit hard by chytrid fungus in the 1980s and 1990s. The endangered waterfall frog (Litoria nannotis) and Australian lace-lid frog (L. dayi) were detected beyond their historic ranges, suggesting a stronger comeback than previously thought. The critically endangered armoured mistfrog (Litoria lorica) appeared at only a single location, indicating continued vulnerability.
Senior research officer Cecilia Villacorta-Rath highlighted the frogs' aquatic habits made eDNA detection feasible. Senior lecturer Laura Grogan noted that recovery can vary by species and may involve resistance, behavioral shifts, or fungal changes. Both experts warn that genetic bottlenecks from past mass deaths could leave populations fragile, especially against future threats like climate extremes.
Why it matters
Understanding frog recovery helps gauge ecosystem health and informs conservation strategies against a persistent fungal threat.
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