In the past decade chytridiomycosis has been recognized as a major cause of amphibian decline and biodiversity loss at local and global level. To complement the data on the current range of chytrid fungi in Europe, we conducted the first comprehensive survey on the presence of these emerging pathogens in Slovenia. We collected skin swabs samples from 110 specimens of 21 native and introduced amphibian species. Samples were obtained at 50 locations in nature and three captive locations in Slovenia. DNA isolation and standardized qPCR-based diagnostics of potential presence of chytrid fungi in samples was conducted at the Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana. The results confirmed the first occurrence of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in wild amphibian populations in Slovenia. Although further studies are needed to determine the origin, distribution and possible impact of the pathogen on amphibian populations in Slovenia, we believe that the first record of this fungal pathogen will help to initiate appropriate and much-needed conservation measures of amphibians in the country.
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