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A fungal infection that is killing amphibians around the world acts by disrupting the flow of electrolytes across their skin, ultimately causing heart failure. The discovery is helping to raise hopes that a treatment for the infection could one day be given to amphibians in the wild. Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, a kind of chytrid fungus that causes the skin disease chytridiomycosis in amphibians, was likely spread around the world by the South African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis) in the 1930s and 1940s, when the frog was widely used as a pregnancy test. A pregnant woman's urine, injected under the frog's skin, would contain sufficient hormones to make the animal ovulate. But although the South African clawed frog seems to have immunity to the disease, many other amphibians are not so lucky. According to one study led by chytrid expert Karen Lips of the University of Maryland in College Park, chytridiomycosis can kill 80% of amphibians in one year in an area with cool, moist conditions.1 Until now, no one was sure exactly how the fungus killed its victim; some researchers thought that it might secrete a poison. Jamie Voyles, a disease ecologist at James Cook University in Townsville, Queensland, Australia, and colleagues exposed Australian green tree frogs (Litoria caerulea) to the fungus, and have now worked out its deadly mode of attack. Voyles and colleagues monitored the progression of the infection, took blood and urine samples and measured electrolyte flow across skin samples. They found that levels of two ions — potassium and sodium — were greatly reduced in infected frogs, and that the ability to move these ions back and forth across the animals' skin had been greatly impaired. "Frog skin is really unique because it is permeable to water but it must maintain proper concentrations of these [electrolyte] ions," says Voyles. In infected frogs, "the electrolyte balance is all out of whack". The low potassium levels, in particular, were probably responsible for a breakdown of the electrical regulation of the heart, and the frogs ultimately died because their hearts stopped. The work is reported in Science2. Rich solution
The team found that an electrolyte-rich solution, similar to sports drinks but more concentrated, delayed death in infected frogs. But it couldn't cure them. "Because the skin is damaged, we can't really keep them from dying unless we fix the problem in the skin," says Voyles. Although captive frogs can be bathed in an antifungal medicine to rid them of their infection, there is no easy way to treat the hundreds of species of wild amphibians at risk of being wiped out by the fungus. Voyles's work is just one piece of research that might someday lead to a treatment that could be deployed in the wild. Geneticist Erica Rosenblum of the University of Idaho in Moscow is looking at gene expression in both the fungus and the host to determine what makes the fungus so lethal — and why amphibian immune systems don't seem to be aware of the infection.3 "Jamie has found that their osmotic regulation is all screwed up, they are essentially having heart attacks," she says. "Mine is an earlier question: why don't they have an immune response?" One possible treatment is being pursued by Reid Harris, a microbial ecologist at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. He has found that at least some species of amphibians have beneficial bacteria on their skin that produce a protective antifungal agent.4 He is looking into the possibility of adding more of these bacteria to the soil in ecosystems where vulnerable amphibians live, to boost their natural defences. "People are already doing this in their gardens and larger-scale agricultural applications as well," he says. Harris would first like to try the technique on populations of frogs in captivity — so-called survival assurance colonies held in zoos and other institutions awaiting the day when they can be safely returned to the wild. Despite all these advances, Lips says that she has seen too many frog populations destroyed by the fungus to retain her optimism about saving what is left. "I don't know that there is enough money going to the right labs quickly enough to make a difference," she says. "More governments and NGOs need to step up. I mean, we are losing half the amphibians on the planet. And throwing amphibians into zoos is a short-term solution. It doesn't solve any problems." References Lips, K. R., et al. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 103, 3165-3170 2006 | Article | PubMed | ChemPort |
Voyles, J. et al. Science 326, 582-585 (2009).
Rosenblum, E. B. et al. PLoS ONE 4, e6494 (2009).
Harris, R. N., Lauer, A., Simon, M. A., Banning, J. L. & Alford, R. A. Dis. Aquat. Organisms 83, 11-16 (2009). (http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/2369809/posts))
The City of Manhattan Parks and Recreation Department opened the new ice rink in City Park Thursday, November 19. The hours of operation are 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission for all ages is $2.00 per person and skate rental is available for $2.00.
Punch cards good for ten admissions and/or skate rentals are $15.00, and are available for purchase at the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Office, 1101 Fremont, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The ice rink will also house ice skating lessons for all ages and youth hockey lessons for children ages 12 and under. The Parks and Recreation Department is currently accepting registrations for these lessons. Reservations are also being accepted for private gatherings. For more information on reserving the ice rink, or hockey and skating lessons, contact the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Office, 587-2757.
The City of Manhattan will host a public Open House to discuss transit issues on Wednesday, December 2 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Commission Room, City Hall, 1101 Poyntz Avenue. The City has recently contracted with TranSystems Corporation, Kansas City, Missouri, to complete an update to the 2001 Transit Implementation Plan. This update will define the short- and long-term feasibility for transit in Manhattan and the surrounding area by reviewing the transit needs of key markets including Kansas State University students and faculty, and residents of Fort Riley, Manhattan, and rural areas. The update will also identify the building blocks for a future transit system by analyzing how market conditions have changed since 2001, reviewing what current and future resources are available to support transit, and determining what type of system can be supported. An analysis of three different concepts will be included. The updated study is expected to be completed in eight months, and will be guided by an eleven-member Steering Committee composed of various transit stakeholders. The Open House will mark the beginning of the update of the 2001 Transit Implementation Plan, and the public is encouraged to attend to discuss the study process, ask questions, and give feedback to members of the Steering Committee and consulting team. For more information on the 2001 Transit Implementation Plan Update, contact Karen Davis, Director of Community Development, 785-587-2425 or davis@ci.manhattan.ks.us.
The City of Manhattan funds an Emergency Repair Program to provide housing repairs for qualified homeowners with low to moderate incomes. Repairs include electrical, plumbing, heating, accessibility, and other improvements deemed necessary by the program to correct an emergency situation. Homeowners within the City limits of Manhattan are eligible to apply for funds through the program. In order to be considered, homeowners must meet the following income requirements: Number of Persons per Household : Total Annual Gross Household Income/Assets
1 : $32,650
2 : $37,300
3 : $42,000
4 : $46,650
Applications will be accepted until all funds are exhausted on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications are available at City Hall, 1101 Poyntz Avenue, or on the City’s Web site, www.ci.manhattan.ks.us. Contact Scott Cronin, Housing Rehabilitation Inspector, with questions at 587-2412 or cronin@ci.manhattan.ks.us.
The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) today announced that the Sunset Zoological Park was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. “The Sunset Zoological Park is one of the best in the world because it has met the highest standards in the world,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “It takes hard work and a sustained commitment to excellence to meet Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation Standards.” To be accredited, the Sunset Zoological Park underwent a thorough investigation to insure it has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process in order to be members of the Association, and are required to resubmit to this process every five years. “Sunset Zoological Park is also a great place for people to connect with nature,” Maddy added. “Members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums support their schools and communities with science-based wildlife education programs that not only inform, but also inspire conservation action.” The accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation in areas such as animal care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff, and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and other areas. The inspection team prepares an extensive written report for the Accreditation Commission. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal Commission hearing, after which accreditation is granted, tabled, or denied. Any institution that is denied may reapply one year after the Commission’s decision is made.
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, please visit www.aza.org
Learn About the Association of Zoos & Aquariums
Paying parking tickets in the City of Manhattan just got a little easier. The Municipal Court is offering citizens an online payment option on the City’s Web site. By following the ‘Make a Municipal Court Payment’ link, citizens can now make payments for parking tickets and other court fees. Visit www.ci.manhattan.ks.us/payment for more information, or call Municipal Court at 785-587-2450.
Sunset Zoo offers a year of fun and adventure with 17 Special Events, Make a Difference EdZoocation, Summer Clubs, Volunteer Opportunities and More; Check it Out! 2009 Special Events
The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) today announced that the Sunset Zoological Park was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. “The Sunset Zoological Park is one of the best in the world because it has met the highest standards in the world,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “It takes hard work and a sustained commitment to excellence to meet Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation Standards.” To be accredited, the Sunset Zoological Park underwent a thorough investigation to insure it has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process in order to be members of the Association, and are required to resubmit to this process every five years. “Sunset Zoological Park is also a great place for people to connect with nature,” Maddy added. “Members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums support their schools and communities with science-based wildlife education programs that not only inform, but also inspire conservation action.” The accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation in areas such as animal care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff, and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and other areas. The inspection team prepares an extensive written report for the Accreditation Commission. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal Commission hearing, after which accreditation is granted, tabled, or denied. Any institution that is denied may reapply one year after the Commission’s decision is made.
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, please visit www.aza.org
Learn About the Association of Zoos & Aquariums
Sunset Zoo offers a year of fun and adventure with 17 Special Events, Make a Difference EdZoocation, Summer Clubs, Volunteer Opportunities and More; Check it Out! 2009 Special Events
The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) today announced that the Sunset Zoological Park was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. “The Sunset Zoological Park is one of the best in the world because it has met the highest standards in the world,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “It takes hard work and a sustained commitment to excellence to meet Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation Standards.” To be accredited, the Sunset Zoological Park underwent a thorough investigation to insure it has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process in order to be members of the Association, and are required to resubmit to this process every five years. “Sunset Zoological Park is also a great place for people to connect with nature,” Maddy added. “Members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums support their schools and communities with science-based wildlife education programs that not only inform, but also inspire conservation action.” The accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation in areas such as animal care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff, and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and other areas. The inspection team prepares an extensive written report for the Accreditation Commission. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal Commission hearing, after which accreditation is granted, tabled, or denied. Any institution that is denied may reapply one year after the Commission’s decision is made.
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, please visit www.aza.org
Learn About the Association of Zoos & Aquariums
Saturday, November 21, Sunset Zoo & St. Jude supporters in the Manhattan community will join together to participate in the 5K "Give thanks. Walk." to raise money for the children of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. By walking in this 5K event, you'll help the doctors and researchers find lifesaving cures for desperately ill children in communities everywhere. By walking, we can bring hope to the patients and families who search of a cure. Location: Sunset Zoo, 2333 Oak Street, Manhattan, KS 66502 Registration Starts: 8:45 AM Walk Starts: 10:00 AM Distance: 5K Learn more at the following link.
Sunset Zoo offers a year of fun and adventure with 17 Special Events, Make a Difference EdZoocation, Summer Clubs, Volunteer Opportunities and More; Check it Out! 2009 Special Events
Owners of exotic animals like reptiles and birds need to be aware of illnesses that can affect both their pet and humans, according to a Kansas State University veterinarian. Gary West, assistant professor of zoological medicine in K-State's College of Veterinary Medicine, said exotic animals can make fun and interesting pets, but there are many health factors to consider before owning one. West said common exotic pets are ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, reptiles and birds. He recommended several of these animals as good pets, including cockatiels, guinea pigs, rabbits, bearded dragons, corn snakes, blue-tongued skinks, some species of tarantulas, freshwater tropical fish and some tortoises. Owning an exotic pet is different from owning pets like dogs and cats. Some exotic pets have specialized needs, such as lizards that require an ultraviolet light for basking, live insects for food or other whole prey items, West said. "Many of our diets and health care are very advanced for dogs, which have been domesticated for a long time," he said. "Many exotic pets are non-domestic, and although many advances have been made, there are still things we are learning about them." West said there are fad exotic animals every few years that can be challenging to own, such as a kinkajou. West said this South American animal is related to the raccoon and typically does not make a good pet because of special environmental requirements and that it can bite. He said all exotic animals have specific needs and requirements, and it is important that the pet owner become educated about the animal before purchasing it. He said the best way to keep an exotic pet healthy is to know what it requires to stay healthy and thrive. Exotic animals can carry diseases, West said. Reptiles are commonly known to be at risk of carrying salmonella, and there have been reports of other diseases, including chlamydia, in pet birds. Rabies also is a concern for mammals if they go outdoors. However, unlike dogs and cats, exotic pets like reptiles can carry diseases like salmonella without getting sick -- but that puts other animals and humans at risk. West said after handling an exotic pet, people should wash their hands immediately. He also said reptiles should not be allowed to roam free, they should not be allowed in the kitchen or around people who are eating, and owners should disinfect surfaces where reptiles have been. Additionally, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that reptiles not be kept in homes with children younger than 5 years or with immunocompromised people, he said. West said typically there are no signs or symptoms to tell if an exotic animal is a carrier of salmonella or other diseases, though the animal could infect other pets. To keep other pets from getting the diseases, West said the same principles for humans apply. Other animals should not come into direct contact with the exotic pet, for mutual benefit, and the animals should keep away from each other's food and water bowls. Some exotic animals do not like much handling, noise or strangers, and agitating the animal puts the owner at risk for bites and scratches. Bite wounds can become infected with bacteria from the pet's mouth and should be examined by a doctor. Additionally, injuries are fairly common in small pets, so owners should be careful when the animal is around larger animals like dogs or around young children, West said. "We see many cases where the family cat or dog injures or bites the exotic pet, which are often can be life-threatening wounds," he said. He said owners should not impulse-buy pets, especially exotic animals. People also should buy from a good source who is knowledgeable about husbandry and care, and the source should also be able to recommend good products and guarantee that the animal is healthy. West also said to see if the source is selling species that make good pets. He said there are many animals that should not be pets, such as monkeys. Primates make bad pets for several reasons, he said, including because they can carry diseases that are transmissible to humans. "Wildlife do not make good pets, and it is illegal and irresponsible to take a baby animal from the wild and raise it or make a pet out of it," West said. "You are not helping it." West said owning a pet can be good for children as a way to learn patience and responsibility, and all pets can be great companions and even stress relievers. "Watching your fish or learning more about these fascinating creatures can be great hobbies for children and adults," he said. "Observing and learning about their behavior can be very interesting and help foster an interest and love for animals and wildlife." From an article appearing online at http://kstatenews.org/?p=1644. Used with permission of the Dr. Gary West.
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