Science experts think that the deterioration and loss of several frog species around the world may be partially because of a disease initiated by a Chytrid fungus. The fungus attacks the portions of a skin of the frog that have keratin in them, which can be viewed clearly by means of microscopy under a microscope like the dissecting binocular microscope. The skin of the frog and its intricate design as well as its muscles once it is skinned can be viewed clearly through microscopy under a microscope such as dissecting binocular microscope. Since frogs utilize their skin in respiration, having fungus attached to it makes it not easy for the frog to breathe. The fungus also destroys the nervous system, affecting the behavior of the frog.
An ill frog may have stained skin, which can be better observed by means of microscopy using a microscope like the dissecting binocular microscope. A sick frog may also be sloughing or peeling, on the external layers of its skin, which can be monitored via microscopy using a microscope such as the dissecting binocular microscope. This can differ from apparent peeling of skin particularly on the feet, to a coarseness of its skin that you can hardly see. A frog that is ill sits out in the open and not protecting itself through hiding. A sick frog tends to be sluggish and have no desire to eat. An ill frog has its legs spread somewhat away from itself, rather than keeping them tucked near to its body. In more serious instances, the frog’s body will be firm and its back legs will follow behind it.
Chytrid fungus is possibly transmitted by straight contact between frogs and tadpoles or via exposure to contaminated water. A Chytrid infection can show in the pink underbelly of a frog. In case of severe infection the effect of the disease can be seen in its lethargic pose and peeling skin. Such manifestations and its spread in the body of the frog can be better observed once the frog is dissected and viewed by means of microscopy using a microscope such as dissecting binocular microscope. Nevertheless, the frog must be treated first before undergoing dissection to avoid the spreading of the disease. The illness may not exterminate the frogs instantly and they can swim or hop to other places before they expire, scattering fungal spores to other ponds and streams. This only implies that it is extremely essential not to relocate frogs from one place to another. The equipment being utilized in fishing, camping, gardening or frog survey as well as the wet or muddy boots and tires of the vehicles can also be the factors of the spreading of the disease.
Some precautionary measures are being disseminated in order to prevent the spreading of the disease. In case you visit the frog habitats in the wild, involving nature ponds in parks or gardens, you are advised not to touch the frogs but only touch them when extremely obligatory. Always remember to wear disposable gloves, utilize sample bags and sterile equipment. Clean and dry the entire equipment and wet or muddy footwear before and between visiting frog places. This may involve cleaning the tires of your automobile prior to visiting known high-risk places where endangered frog species may live. Do not transfer a frog from one place to another. Bring cleaning utensils and a disinfectant for use between sites.
In case you have found an ill frog or a dead frog that has not died from apparent cause such as being hit by a vehicle, you are ask to take the frog without directly touching it and place it inside a container then place it inside a plastic bag, seal it and freeze it as soon as possible. If the frog is still alive, check to be sure that the container is escape-proof and has a few tiny air holes and a small quantity of water. Call the Frogwatch office for advice on what to do with it.