Research Keyword: functional redundancy

Potential Protective Role of Amphibian Skin Bacteria Against Water Mold Saprolegnia spp.

Frogs have helpful bacteria living on their skin that can fight dangerous water molds called Saprolegnia. Scientists discovered that different types of bacteria, especially Bacillus species, can prevent these molds from growing. The study found that frogs from polluted or salty water actually had bacteria that were better at fighting the mold, likely because harsh conditions helped tougher bacteria survive. These protective bacteria might explain why adult frogs can resist these infections better than tadpoles or eggs.

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Potential Protective Role of Amphibian Skin Bacteria Against Water Mold Saprolegnia spp.

Researchers discovered that bacteria living on frog skin can protect against a dangerous water mold called Saprolegnia that kills amphibian eggs and young tadpoles. They tested 196 different bacteria from frogs in Portugal and found that certain bacteria, especially Bacillus species, could stop the mold from growing. Interestingly, these bacteria worked best in clean water environments with fewer nutrients, similar to natural pond conditions, suggesting nature has built-in protections for amphibians.

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