8. For several decades now, amphibian species worldwide have been in decline. A significant proportion of the decline seems to b
e due to the spread of the chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). Chytrid sporangia reside within the epidermal cells of infected animals, animals that consequently show areas of sloughed skin. They can also be lethargic, which is expressed through failure to hide and failure to flee. The infection cycle typically takes four to five days, at the end of which zoospores are released from sporangia into the environment. In some amphibian species, mortality rates approach 100%; other species seem able to survive the infection. The chytrid sporangia reside within the amphibian epidermal cells. Consequently, which term(s) apply to Bd? 1. ectosymbionts 2. parasites 3. commensals 4. pathogens 5. endosymbionts A. 1 and 2 B. 1 and 3 C. 2 and 4 D. 2, 3, and 5 E. 2, 4, and 5
The correct answer is: C. 2 and 4 (2. parasites 4. pathogens).
Parasite is an organism that lives in or on another organism (the host) causing it some harm.
Pathogens are infectious agents or more generally saying anything that can cause disease.
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis also known as amphibian chytrid fungus can live as a parasite inside the epidermal fungus cell. It can also cause the disease Chytridiomycosis.
