Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Rocky Mountain CESU

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The purpose of the Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center (NoRock) funding opportunity is to research the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) as it relates to amphibian population declines and extinctions. The effect of Bd on amphibians varies both across species and among populations with species, including among boreal toads native to Grand Teton (Wyoming) and Rocky Mountain (Colorado) National Parks. The pathogen is widespread in toad breading populations in both regions yet recent, severe declines have been documented only in Colorado toads. Regional differences in environmental factors, especially how often toads encounter moderate temperature (17-23° C) and high moisture regimes favoring chytridiomycosis, or in evolutionary factors, either Bd strain pathogenicity or host susceptibility, may explain differential declines in Colorado and Wyoming. The Center proposes a comparative field study in both Colorado and Wyoming involving toad models and toad telemetry in order to characterize the physical environment experienced by boreal toads, and their associated Bd infection intensity, in space and time. Concurrently in both regions, samples and characterizations associated with skin microflora will be gathered. Finally, although laboratory trials have shown that each region’s strain of Bd is pathogenic locally, the Center has not ruled out subtler regional differences in pathogenicity or host resistance which may interact with environmental factors to increase the likelihood of disease in Colorado. A cross-infection study with Bd and toads from both regions in a range of microenvironments will be conducted. This project will take significant steps towards identifying, and ruling out, evolutionary and ecological factors that favor the expression of chytridiomycosis in Colorado. By quantifying toad habitat use and infection status in regions with and without decline, our study may be vital for park managers targeting amphibians affected by this disease. NoRock conducts research in support of natural resources management in the mountains and plains of Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and Idaho. The Center produces and disseminates scientific information needed for decision-making in collaboration with Federal and State land management agencies, Native American tribes, academic institutions and organizations. Since 2001, NoRock has funded projects that advance the Center in producing strong and unbiased scientific information necessary for decision making. The Center will continue to support such projects. A. Fiscal Year 2008 Funding A total of $29,282 is available for the FY 2008/2009 program. The project will be funded for one base year and up to four out-years from the point of award, depending on research results and the availability of funding. Award notification will be made on or about July 1, 2008. Project work must commence by July 1, 2008. Start dates after August 1, 2008, are not authorized under this announcement.

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