Survey for Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in wild Rana dybowskii larvae in northern China

Chytridiomycosis is an emerging fungal disease of amphibians responsible for mass mortalities and population declines worldwide. To date, the presence and epidemiology of this pathogen in China is unclear. In order to assess the infection of wild anurans (Rana dybowskii) by the causative agent, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, 120 tadpoles were collected across 12 sites in Heilongjiang Province and examined using PCR assays. Jaw sheaths and tooth rows of tadpoles were checked by a 10× hand lens for visible signs of infection. No visible signs of infection were noted and all individuals were negative for B. dendrobatidis by PCR assay. This study is the first investigation of B. dendrobatidis in the tadpoles of free-ranging Rana dybowskii in Heilongjiang province.