A pathogen discovered last fall in captive salamanders in North America is drawing scrutiny and raising red flags.
The unidentified pathogen documented in three non-native salamander species has caused death rates of 35-55 percent in infected collections, according to Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation.
Two North American species – including spotted salamanders, common in parts of Georgia – have gotten sick after being exposed to contaminated soil and water in laboratory tests, PARC reported. The signs of illness included abnormal skin shedding or sloughing, skin lesions or ulcerations, sluggishness and a decreased appetite.
The lethal salamander pathogen Bsal has been ruled out. But scientists in the U.S., which leads the world in salamander diversity, are urging caution as they try to identify the pathogen and possible risks to captive and native amphibians.
Amphibian owners, pet businesses and outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to:
- Never release pet salamanders into the wild (it’s also illegal in Georgia) or empty untreated aquarium water or substrate outside.
- Report signs of illness in captive salamanders (Healthy Trade Institute) and wild salamanders (jesse.maestas@dnr.ga.gov).
- Do not move, sell or dispose of sick salamanders without professional guidance.
- Follow recommended safety practices when caring for salamanders.