Scientists Discover New Fungus Species Causing Devastating Bat Disease

A sudden and unexplained bat mortality was observed in a cave in New York State, USA, in 2006-2007. The affected animals presented with a white powdery growth on their noses, caused by a previously unknown fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans. This fungal infection, known as white-nose disease, spread rapidly across North America, decimating hibernating bat populations.

However, new genetic evidence reveals that the narrative around this pathogen was oversimplified. Researcher Dr. Nicola Fischer and her team discovered two different fungal species capable of causing white-nose disease: one introduced to North America and another found in Eurasia where it coexists with native bat species without causing large-scale mortalities.

The second fungus species poses a significant new risk for bat conservation, as it has not yet been detected in North America but could endanger affected bat species. The origin of the introduction to North America has finally been clarified, with genetic analysis tracing the spread back to the Podillia region in Ukraine.

This study highlights the major risks that caving activities pose for the spread of pathogens and underscores the need for better understanding of “biological pollution” associated with human travel. Thorough cleaning of caving equipment is essential in preventing the spread of disease, and this project demonstrates the power of citizen science.

The research was made possible by an exceptional volunteer effort, involving over 360 volunteers from across the northern hemisphere. The study’s findings have significant implications for bat conservation and highlight the importance of prioritizing biosecurity measures in cave research.

Source: https://www.uni-greifswald.de/en/university/information/current-news/details/n/a-241425