Parasite threatens amphibians

Associated Press

WASHINGTON

Scientists have identified a new problem for amphibians, which already are shrinking in numbers: A parasite is infesting tadpoles worldwide.

The family of parasites, related to a bug that attacks oysters, has been found in the livers of frogs and tadpoles on three continents and in both temperate and tropical climates. Researchers linked it to a mass die-off of tadpoles in a Georgia lake.

“There have been numerous outbreaks with this parasite, what we presume to be the same parasite, all over the eastern part of the United States,” said University of Georgia wildlife ecology professor Michael Yabsley, co-author of a study published Monday by the Proceedings of the National of Academy of Sciences. “It’s certainly going to be one of the things we are worried about for the long-term health of amphibians.”

Study lead author Thomas Richards said amphibian numbers already are falling because of habitat loss, climate change, fungus and other diseases.