Assessing Implication of Low-level Psudogymnoascus destructans

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This proposed project investigates low-level detections of Pseudogymnoascus destructans (P. destructans) at ELMA, CAVE, and GRCA, which at less than 300 miles from ELMA is likely to soon have similar low-level detections. These park units contain over 1,000 known caves, serving as hibernacula for many bats likely to be vulnerable to P. destructans. Microclimate studies in these caves indicate the potential to support P. destructans, despite suggestions that they are too warm and arid (Buecher et al. in preparation). These low-level detections of P. destructans in multiple areas throughout New Mexico were made by the Northern Arizona University (NAU) Pathogen and Microbiome Institute Foster lab. The NWHC was unable to confirm these results. This project will utilize the combined expertise of park staff to increase surveillance for P. destructans, monitor for WNS, and assess the impact of WNS. In addition, this project seeks to understand the significance of these low-level detections and if there is a difference in detections due to bat behavior or cave microclimates in the Southwest.

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