Author: Lori Carris

Department of Plant Pathology
Washington State University
carris@wsu.edu

Abstract: This is an interrupted or progressive disclosure type of case study
based on a paper by Rachowicz et al. 2006 (Ecology 87: 1671-1683)
that explores how researchers determine whether declines in frog
populations are due to the frog chytrid, Batrachochytrium
dendrobatidis (Bd). The case study was developed as part of a unit on
Amphibian Decline in Pl P 526, Advanced Fungal Biology, a graduate-
level course in the Department of Plant Pathology at Washington State
University.

Objectives:
 Learn about methods used to detect Bd in natural populations
 Acquire understanding of multiple factors impacting frog populations
 Become aware of limitations in working with endangered organisms

See this link for the full activity