The article discusses the increasing emergence of infectious diseases, particularly those caused by fungal pathogens like Pseudogymnoascus destructans, responsible for white-nose syndrome in bats. While previously thought to be a single clonal species, research reveals genetic diversity among P. destructans, with distinct populations in Europe and Asia. This study's findings, based on a collection of over 5,000 isolates across multiple countries, indicate two cryptic species contributing to disease dynamics, which has implications for public health, wildlife conservation, and ecological stability.
Our extensive reference collection of 5,479 isolates demonstrates the presence of two distinct cryptic species of Pseudogymnoascus destructans, impacting both research and conservation strategies.
By identifying the geographical source population of the North American strain, we unlock new avenues for understanding the pathogenicity of Pseudogymnoascus destructans and its effects on bat populations.
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