The first amphibian apocalypse began in the late 20th century due to a deadly fungus called Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). This fungus causes chytridiomycosis, a contagious and lethal disease responsible for driving hundreds of species worldwide to extinction. Researchers estimate that Bd has caused 90 amphibian species to go extinct, with 501 more in decline.
The Devastating Impact of Chytridiomycosis
Chytridiomycosis is a devastating disease that attacks the skin of amphibians, causing them to die from cardiac arrest or the loss of essential skin functions. This fungus spreads rapidly, with infected individuals able to transmit the disease to healthy populations. The global spread of Bd has been a major contributor to the ongoing amphibian extinction crisis, with many species disappearing from their native habitats.
The Global Scope of the Amphibian Apocalypse
The impact of the Bd fungus has been felt on a global scale. Researchers estimate that 90 amphibian species have gone extinct due to this disease, with an additional 501 species in decline. The widespread nature of this crisis has led some to describe it as the “first amphibian apocalypse,” highlighting the devastating toll it has taken on amphibian populations around the world.