• Abstract and Figures
• Public Full-text

Item 12.1.3

1

2

3

4

5

6 Review of the Threat Abatement Plan

7 for Infection of Amphibians with

8 Chytrid Fungus Resulting in

9 Chytridiomycosis (2006) 10 11 12 13 14 15 July 2012 16 17

1 of 91 18 1. 1. Executive summary 19 20 The Threat Abatement Plan for Infection of Amphibians with Chytrid Fungus Resulting in 21 Chytridiomycosis has been reviewed as required under the Environment Protection and 22 Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. The actions that have been undertaken to abate the threat 23 from the disease as identified through the actions, goals and objectives of the threat abatement 24 plan have been assessed. 25 26 The review found that, while some of the actions had been undertaken and many partially 27 undertaken (for instance, there are now established protocols for field hygiene procedures), 28 the two goals of the threat abatement plan have largely not been achieved. That is, the further 29 spread of amphibian chytrid fungus within Australia has been slowed to some extent but it has 30 not been prevented from reaching almost all climatically suitable areas in Australia; and the 31 impact of infection with amphibian chytrid fungus on populations that are currently infected 32 has only been somewhat decreased. 33 34 Appropriate hygiene protocols have been developed and a national disease strategy will soon 35 be available. A number of different research projects have studied amphibian chytrid fungus 36 but there are still critical gaps in knowledge regarding the fungus, such as the apparent 37 immunity of some amphibian species and potential non-amphibian reservoir species. The 38 majority of the research work to date has been supported by funding from independent 39 sources and its completion and implementation requires further funding and resources. 40 41 The stakeholder working group identified the following priority actions still needing to be 42 undertaken: improved data collection to facilitate the identification of the population level of 43 threat in wild populations; establish a genome bank for the cryopreservation of threatened 44 species; continued research into the most effective methods of mitigating and suppressing the 45 disease in wild amphibian populations; and continued improvement in communication on the 46 disease. 47 48 The threat abatement plan identified the need to undertake coordinated national surveillance 49 of wild amphibian populations. This has not occurred to any extent, probably because of the 50 high level of resources that would be required to undertake such a task. The threat abatement 51 plan also identifies the need for identification and implementation of management actions for 52 amphibian chytrid in the listed threatened species. Some actions under this goal have been 53 undertaken through recovery planning for each species, although the degree to which the 54 disease is identified in the relevant recovery plans for each of the species ranges from the 55 chytrid fungus being identified as a threat to not being mentioned. The funding provided to 56 the listed threatened species through Caring for our Country was assessed and it has been 57 concluded that there is limited on-ground action supporting the review of this program to 58 directly abate the threat from amphibian chytrid fungus. Only two of the 17 project 59 summaries identified chytrid fungus as an action to be addressed. 60 61 The threat abatement plan is at a stage where eight of the 68 actions in the plan have been 62 completed and a further 39 actions are partially complete. It is concluded that there are still 63 actions outstanding that may be able to contribute to abating the threat but that the current 64 threat abatement plan requires a new direction to refocus the threat abatement actions. This 65 conclusion was supported by the stakeholders. Further, because the key threatening process of 66 Infection of Amphibians with Chytrid Fungus Resulting in Chytridiomycosis is still valid, 67 there remains a need for threat abatement. 68 Item 12.1.3

69 A separate options paper will explore the options available to the Minister to assist in abating 70 the key threatening process of infection of amphibians with chytrid fungus resulting in 71 chytridiomycosis. 72

3 of 91 73 2. Table of Contents 74 3. 75

76 4. Item 12.1.3

77 5. 2. Purpose of review 78 6. 79 Under section 279 of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 80 (EPBC Act) the Minister must review each threat abatement plan at intervals of not longer 81 than five years. The Threat Abatement Plan for Infection of Amphibians with Chytrid Fungus 82 Resulting in Chytridiomycosis (the TAP) was made by the Minister in 2006. Under section 83 279 this plan is due for review. 84 85 Reviewing threat abatement plans, at least every five years, allows for an assessment of 86 whether the threat has been abated or, if not, what progress has been made towards abating 87 the threat. It is acknowledged that some key actions listed in threat abatement plans may take 88 longer than five years to achieve, such as improving re-introduction methodologies to 89 establish sustainable wild populations of threatened amphibian species. The review of a 90 threat abatement plan assesses progress and effectiveness of progress across all actions in the 91 threat abatement plan. It also considers progress towards threat abatement in associated ways, 92 such as work related to chytrid fungus done through recovery plans for specific species. 93 Finally it also considers if the threatened species are still being threatened by the key 94 threatening process. 95 96 The review of a threat abatement plan provides an opinion on whether a threat abatement plan 97 is still a feasible, effective and efficient means to abate a threat (s. 279A) and alternative 98 options for the Threatened Species Scientific Committee to consider and advise the Minister. 99

100 2.1 Review 101 The primary purpose of the review of the TAP is to assess the progress and effectiveness of 102 the TAP in reducing the impact of amphibian chytrid fungus on nationally listed amphibians 103 and preventing further amphibians from becoming threatened. 104 105 The Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (the 106 department) has undertaken the review in consultation with a working group comprised of 107 key stakeholders (researchers and state agency representatives), established to advise on 108 action to be undertaken under the TAP. 109

110 2.2 Approach 111 A meeting of the stakeholder working group in May 2012 reviewed the state of knowledge 112 and research around amphibian chytrid fungus. The department has drawn on this knowledge 113 as well as published scientific literature, grey literature, and reports to the Australian 114 Government to review each specific action in the threat abatement plan. 115 116 The key stakeholders (including the working group members) were invited in February 2012 117 to comment on the departmental assessment of progress and to provide comment on potential 118 future work that might be required to help abate the threat. Responses were received from 119 many stakeholders including representatives from each jurisdiction, non-government 120 organisations and key scientific researchers. 121 122

5 of 91 123 7. 3. Background 124 8. 125 ‘Infection of Amphibians with Chytrid Fungus Resulting in Chytridiomycosis’ was listed in 126 July 2002 as a key threatening species under the EPBC Act. The Minister determined under 127 section 270A of the EPBC Act that having a threat abatement plan was a feasible, effective 128 and efficient way to abate the impact of chytrid fungus on threatened Australian amphibians. 129 130 Australia’s native amphibians are threatened by a pathogenic fungus, Batrachochytrium 131 dendrobatidis (B. dendrobatidis), known either as the amphibian chytrid or the amphibian 132 chytrid fungus, which causes the infection known as chytridiomycosis. This infection affects 133 amphibians worldwide. This highly virulent fungal pathogen of amphibians is capable at the 134 minimum of causing sporadic deaths in some populations, and 100 per cent mortality in other 135 populations. Some species are resistant to mortality and serve as disease reservoirs and 136 carriers. 137 138 In Australia (see map at Attachment B), chytridiomycosis/B. dendrobatidis has been found in 139 all states and the Australian Capital Territory, but not in the Northern Territory. 140 Chytridiomycosis/B. dendrobatidis may have been introduced into Australia via the port of 141 Brisbane around 1978 and spread northward and southward. It did not appear to arrive in 142 Western Australia until 1985. The earliest records from South Australia and Tasmania are 143 from 1995 and 2004, respectively. There are some pockets of free areas within infected 144 regions due to the isolated nature of some amphibian populations. The disease does not 145 currently occur in Cape York Peninsula in Queensland and most of the World Heritage Area 146 in western Tasmania. A few isolated populations in NSW and Victoria are currently free of 147 infection. 148 149 Chytridiomycosis/B. dendrobatidis has caused the decline and extinction of several hundred 150 amphibian species globally. In Australia it has caused the extinction of at least four species 151 (all from Queensland), and the dramatic decline of at least 10 more. Many persisting species 152 remain at lower abundance and smaller distributions than pre-disease, some are continuing to 153 decline and significant mortality from chytridiomycosis/B. dendrobatidis is ongoing. 154 155 Currently there are no proven methods to control the disease in the wild. For currently 156 endangered frog species, emergency measures are needed to increase population sizes through 157 captive assurance colonies. As chytridiomycosis/B. dendrobatidis is now widely distributed in 158 Australia, control efforts should be aimed at protecting uninfected areas - this is the opposite 159 focus to standard emergency responses. Naive areas exist containing endemic frogs that are at 160 high risk. As strains vary in virulence, reducing the risk of spread between infected areas is 161 also important. Research to improve mitigation of the impact of the disease in infected wild 162 populations is ongoing and further work is urgently required. 163 164 Chytridiomycosis/B. dendrobatidis is listed as a notifiable disease in Australia’s National List 165 of Reportable Diseases of Aquatic Animals1 and by the World Organisation for Animal Health 166 (OIE, formerly Office International des Epizooties) in the Aquatic Animal Health Code.2 167

168 3.1 Purpose of the plan 169 While eradication of a widespread and continuously present disease is not possible in wild 170 amphibians, an array of well targeted actions combined with well developed management

1 1 http://www.daff.gov.au/animal-plant-health/aquatic/reporting/reportable-diseases 2 2 http://www.oie.int/eng/normes/fcode/fcode2006_back/en_sommaire.htm Item 12.1.3

171 plans based on current knowledge can assist in reducing the impact of the disease on 172 threatened amphibian populations, particularly those presently in captive breeding programs 173 and for any future captive breeding of endangered species. 174 175 The threat abatement plan, therefore, had two goals: 176 9. to prevent amphibian populations or regions that are currently chytridiomycosis-free from 177 becoming infected by preventing further spread of the amphibian chytrid within Australia; 178 and 179 10. to decrease the impact of infection with the amphibian chytrid fungus on populations that 180 are currently infected. 181 182 183 11. 4. Assessment of actions undertaken against objectives 184 The threat abatement plan’s objectives were: 185 1. prevent the spread of B. dendrobatidis into areas where it may impact on threatened 186 amphibian species or may lead to amphibian species becoming threatened; 187 2. promote the recovery of nationally listed threatened amphibian species that are known or 188 perceived to be threatened by infection with B. dendrobatidis; 189 3. improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the management of infection with amphibian 190 chytrid through appropriate research and monitoring programmes; 191 4. share information with Australian, state and territory government management agencies, 192 researchers and other academics, landholders, relevant industries and the public about the 193 threat abatement plan’s actions and their outcomes; and 194 5. coordinate management activities effectively. 195 196 The implementation of the TAP was seeking to consolidate and coordinate the process of 197 managing chytrid fungus impacts on native amphibians, and acknowledged that control 198 programs will have to be ongoing and the costs of these could be considerable. As such, the 199 threat abatement plan established a framework to allow for the best possible use of available 200 resources. 201 202 Below is the assessment of progress against each of the specified actions. 203

7 of 91 Item 12.1.3

204 4.1 Objective 1: Prevention of pathogen spread 205 To prevent the spread of B. dendrobatidis into areas where it may impact on threatened amphibian species or may lead to amphibian species 206 becoming threatened. 207 Performance indicator: Appropriate quarantine and management strategies are implemented that prevent transmission of B. dendrobatidis from areas 208 with chytridiomycosis to areas that are chytrid-free.

209 4.1.1 Action group 1.1 – Limit national spread

210 4.1.1.1 Specified actions 211 Table 4.1 shows the actions under objective 1 - action group 1.1, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 212 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 213 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 214 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 215 216 Table 4.1 Summary of actions to limit national spread. Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action 1.1.1: Update the status of The Anton Breinl Centre (ABC)3 Atlas of Living Australia has made the There is currently no system for reporting/updating chytridiomycosis-free states and at James Cook University (JCU) data available at data on Bd distribution in a current and accessible territories, and regions within infected collated results from widespread http://collections.ala.org.au/public/sho database. The Amphibian Disease Home Page states and territories, after the national Australian surveys for w/dr642. The database has also been (http://www.jcu.edu.au/school/phtm/PHTM/frogs/am survey (see action 1.1.2) and on a regular Batrachochytrim dendrobatidis included in ‘Bdmaps’ (http://www.bd- pdis.htm) has not been updated since at least 2008. basis as other reliable results become (Bd) (>10,000 test records) into a maps.net/), a global Bd mapping The Atlas of Living Australia may be an option, but available. This information is most large Bd database and detailed project website. there are costs for membership and restricted user effectively published on the internet and map (Murray et al. 2010b). This Need a system for reporting/updating rights. There should be a careful assessment before the most suitable location is the shows that Bd has spread into the database on the distribution of Bd. this is made as the only site for collation of Amphibian Disease Home Page: most areas that are predicted to Most stakeholders identified this action information. Any independent website would need to http://www.jcu.edu.au/school/phtm/PHT contain suitable climate based on as useful but only partially achieved address issues of ongoing funding, ownership of M/frogs/ampdis.htm (Category 1). climatic modelling (Murray et al. and therefore moderately effective. intellectual property (IP) and sharing rights. 2011d). The major negative areas The distribution of chytrid free areas is not complete, that are at risk of becoming with many areas untested or inaccessible and

3 3The ABC is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for tropical medicine and a constituent discipline of the School of Public Health, Tropical Medicine and 4 Rehabilitation Sciences at James Cook University 8 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action infected are in south west significant biases may exist in current data set. Tasmania and Cape York This action has been partially met and has provided Peninsula. valuable information about some Bd free areas, but Unknown whether chytrid free needs to be re-assessed in order to be effective in the areas exist within lowland areas in future. the ACT. The communication strategy outlined in Objective 4 The Bd status of most of Vic. would contribute to the coordination and knowledge remains unclear. Some studies sharing and therefore the future achievement of this have been conducted which have action. However, the Amphibian Disease Homepage identified Mount Bullfight Nature would no longer be the most appropriate location for Conservation Reserve as likely Bd the information. free – more work required. Annual surveys have been conducted in Tas. but some sites cannot be accessed Very little is known about the status of the disease in SA – further work required. 1.1.2: Undertake a coordinated national A survey protocol was developed JCU (Murray et al.2011d) have also No national survey of frog populations in chytrid free survey of frog populations in (Skerratt et al. 2008) and trialled produced a number of predictive areas has been undertaken, to provide the necessary chytridiomycosis-free regions using (Skerratt et al. 2010). The trial models that seek to integrate current confidence that these regions are free of chytrid and standardised sampling protocols and targeted possible Bd free regions information to 1) predict distribution of its impacts. Without intervention, the ongoing diagnostic techniques to determine the adjacent to known Bd infected Bd given incomplete data (includes monitoring of these populations would be required to distribution of the chytrid fungus and the regions. However sampling was dataset and maps), 2) predict natural ensure they remain chytrid free, which may be affected amphibian species. The priority limited in terms of taxa, spatial wild host species for Bd (shortlists difficult due to funding and access to some of the regions and populations for this survey are and geographic spread. Results most likely species to be infected in the priority areas. Gulf Country, Northern Territory, western were consistent with the predicted wild) and 3) predict which species are As the absence of chytrid is not reported in the same Queensland, western New South Wales, distribution of Bd (Murray et al. likely to decline/ are declining as a way as is presence, a national survey may be northern South Australia, the coast along 2011d) based on climate and other result of Bd infection and a range of necessary to have a complete starting point for a the Great Australian Bight, northwest environmental variables – Bd does other threats. These predictive studies relatively emerging disease. Limiting survey areas Western Australia and western Victoria not grow in the arid inland areas. are useful for informing a national from the start may result in the distribution of Bd (Category 2). Therefore priorities for research, surveillance and management being an artefact of experimental design. surveillance are areas that have agenda (e.g. species prioritisations). Some of the priority areas may need to be removed, tested as negative within the National coordination towards agreed i.e. the Great Australian Bight where there are no predicted favourable distribution objectives (in terms of areas, species, frogs, or areas where environmental factors do not of chytridiomycosis such as south populations and habitats for favour chytrid, in areas with warmer climates like

9 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action west Tas., Cape York, isolated surveillance) is required. For example savannah regions, semi arid or arid regions. On the negative areas in NSW, Mt it appears in terms of limiting spread of other hand, the Tasmanian Wilderness World Bullfight and any unidentified chytrid that we should focus on Heritage Area (TWWHA) in the southwest of Tas. negative areas in Vic. negative areas and species where may need to be included as a priority area, as while it Only a very small area of NSW incursion of Bd could cause extirpation is currently chytrid free, modelling predicts the high has been surveyed – much more and extinction. This has occurred in likelihood of the pathogen occurring. This action has work is required. Tas. and NSW but not in Qld, Vic. or been effective in bringing together information on the Study by Hunter et al. (2007) in WA or at a national level in terms of a distribution of the disease in various regions, but the Australian Alps (including the formal risk assessment framework priority areas need to be re-assessed based on new ACT) identified chytrid fungus in The Action in the TAP included the information since the 2006 TAP, and a national all areas sampled in the ACT. coast along the Great Australian Bight. survey designed, looking specifically at how presence There are no known chytrid-free However, there are no frogs found in /absence is recorded. areas in the ACT. However it is this region. The only species would be unknown whether all frog Sudell's frog or painted burrowing frog populations are susceptible and (Neobatrachus sudelli), and there are their infection rates. no records from the Nullarbor plain Vast majority of Vic. has not been close to the bight [Pers. Comm. tested. Some threatened species Michael Mahony, 28/2/2012]. This not tested. section of the action should be removed Surveys and mapping in Tas. or tightened to indicate species at the showed that chytrid is widespread eastern and western boundaries of the except for a large negative area in bight. the south west World Heritage Most stakeholders identified this action Area, where there are endemic as effective but only partially carried frogs -Tasmanian tree frog and out – national coordination needed. moss froglet (Litoria burrowsae and Bryobatrachus nimbus) (Pauza et al. 2010). Monthly Bd surveys and Tasmanian tree frog call surveys being conducted at two sites adjacent to infected sites to determine species response to Bd invasion. In SA a pilot survey on the distribution of Bd on the southern bell frog has been conducted in

10 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action two bioregions in South Australia: the Murray-Darling Basin and south-eastern SA. Further work is required in SA Surveys conducted in WA at Yanchep NP were positive for chytrid however surveys on Rottnest Is were negative. Surveys on 15 populations of the quacking frog or red thighed froglet (Crinia georgian ) were all positive for chytrid. The Kimberley remains negative for chytrid. 1.1.3: Prepare a model action plan (written Not yet implemented at a national The national disease strategy meets the This action has been partially achieved in that various along the lines of AusVetPlan — level. However, JCU has requirements for the national “model documents now exist regarding mitigating the risk of http://www.aahc.com.au/ausvetplan/) for prepared a national disease action plan” which is the goal of this chytrid. However, some states have action plans, chytridiomycosis- free populations based strategy manual for the action. This strategy will soon be made some states use other jurisdictional action plans and on a risk management approach, setting Department which will soon be publically available. In the meantime, some have no action plans. out the steps of a coordinated response if made available to stakeholders for efforts have been made by the The disease strategy prepared by JCU for the infection with chytridiomycosis is comment and input. The jurisdictions to “protect areas that are department is a national strategy, based on current detected (Category 2). The model action developing national disease chytridiomycosis-free” via various best practices and the most recent research on Bd. It plan will be based on a risk management strategy will inform action plans mechanisms, such as hygiene has been developed on the AQUAVETPLAN approach using quantitative risk analysis for Tas. and NSW. Action plans protocols. template and is a compilation of relevant material in where possible and will be able to be are needed for other states. Knowledge on how best to integrate one publication, soon to be published and available to modified to become area-specific or Many knowledge gaps make a national strategies with state and a wider audience. Its possible inclusion as a manual population-specific. The plan could be quantitative approach to risk territory strategies is needed. under AQUAVETPLAN is being explored. implemented in the face of new outbreaks assessment challenging. Include Workshops are possibly the best Risk management needs to be fluid and able to in chytridiomycosis-free areas or in species susceptibility, species vehicle but need funding. incorporate new research /strategies to mitigate and chytridiomycosis-free populations. ecology, changes in host Most stakeholders identified this action manage the risk of chytrid as issues come to light. Individual jurisdictions can modify the distribution in understudied as useful and effective but only Once a model risk management plan is approved, it model action plan as a preventative species. partially carried out – further may be hard to change and update the content, and it strategy or at least have it available as the The Tasmanian Chytrid coordination needed. is important that mechanisms should be devised to framework for a response plan if needed. Management Plan includes an overcome this before the plan is implemented. This will help ensure national consistency action plan to outline the response This action is extremely in-depth, and a broader in responses to any new outbreaks. For to Bd invasion of key naive action should be developed that can be interpreted in threatened species, the action plan should amphibian populations. the light of current knowledge to achieve the best

11 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action inform relevant species recovery plans. Data for WA shows a lot of frog outcomes. Infrastructure, protocols, responsibilities species co-existing with chytrid and funding sources should be identified and no evidence of chytrid in this action plan, using the approach induced decline in any frog used in AusVetPlan. To protect areas that species. are chytridiomycosis-free, an underlying principle should be that amphibians with chytridiomycosis are not transported into chytridiomycosis-free areas. Actions to reduce transmission into chytridiomycosis-free areas should aim for reduction of risk at source, and prevention of dissemination of B. dendrobatidis at destination. 1.1.4: Using current evidence that the It appears that conditions in the This action has been effective but As Bd spreads throughout Australia, affected by Northern Territory is chytridiomycosis- NT are generally unfavourable for assumes no area in the NT will ever environmental conditions influenced by climate free, the jurisdiction should develop and chytridiomycosis and there is low have chytrid. For example, knowledge change from both anthropogenic and natural causes, implement strategies to prevent the risk of an incursion there. on some niche habitats in the NT this action may have more relevance in the future. accidental introduction of amphibian However, the NT still has pre- should be increased, as highly This action has been achieved although it is unclear chytrid (Category 4). emptive strategies in place to evaporative pools in the desert may be which would have the most effect on the accidental minimise the accidental conducive to chytridiomycosis due to introduction of chytrid, the strategies put in place by introduction of chytrid. NT their lower temperatures compared the NT government or climatic conditions. government does not allow with surrounding environments. amphibian imports to the NT. Berrimah Laboratory have developed an information sheet (April 2010) regarding the requirements for health certification of frogs for import or export to and from the Northern Territory. Cases requesting import permits for research or under special circumstances are assessed on a case by case basis. The last permit to import amphibians was in 2006, and if another application

12 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action was made, the previous process would be reviewed in light of new and relevant information. As part of the regulations and requirements relating to the taking, keeping and importing of frogs in the NT, apart from the required permit, health testing and certification by a veterinarian are required prior to the import or export and this certification must accompany each batch of imported/exported amphibians.

1.1.5: Current evidence is that The ABC has published an Most stakeholders stated that there is This action has been met in that a National Disease Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, example strategy for very little data available on the Strategy has been developed, but is not yet available Australian Capital Territory, South herpetologists (Phillott et al. 2010) translocation of frogs within their states to a wider audience. This manual is in essence a set Australia, Tasmania and Western and developed guidelines and or interstate but expect that any such of guidelines compiled from recent information on Australia have regions and populations of protocols that provide the basis for movements would be minimal. best practices to prevent the transmission of Bd. This frogs infected with the amphibian chytrid. developing strategies. They have It was identified that research on information can be applied to prevent the These jurisdictions should develop and also completed the federally transmission (both ‘natural’ and transmission of Bd to chytrid free areas, but there is implement strategies to prevent (SEWPaC) funded: 1) Guidelines anthropogenic) and effectiveness of no legislative power with the manual. transmission to the Northern Territory and for captive breeding, raising and hygiene measures is urgently needed. While some jurisdictions have linked this information chytridiomycosis-free areas within their restocking programs; and 2) Also need to determine effectiveness to licensing arrangements, once licences have been own and other states (Category 4). Hygiene protocols for the control and cost efficiency of strategies to issued, imports/exports between states is likely to be of diseases in Australian frogs mitigate the risk of disease spread to more regulated than translocation of frogs between (Murray et al. 2011b, c). better inform management (linked to and within jurisdictions. More research is required ABC has also developed and effectiveness of biosecurity actions in on the effectiveness of hygiene measures in non- published predictive models and 3.4). laboratory conditions by a wider range of user groups survey protocols that enable risk in the field. to be assessed and prioritised in Most stakeholders considered that this order to better target biosecurity action had only partially been strategies and for cost efficient implemented but would be effective if surveillance to take place. carried out. No specific strategies have been developed in Queensland (Qld).

13 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Hygiene protocols exist for frog researchers in Qld, ACT, NSW and Vic., however other people such as tourists, bushwalkers, hydrologists, fishers, land managers etc. have no protocol or restrictions. WA appears to have no specific strategies but the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) website makes generic reference to NSW protocols. It is thought that the chytrid fungus may have reached its environmental limits in Qld. Strategies to prevent the transmission of Bd have not been considered in NSW. Three mainland green and golden bell frog populations found to be infected. One offshore island (Broughton Island) found to possibly be uninfected. In Tas. biosecurity and hygiene measures are outlined in the Tasmanian Chytrid Management Plan. These strategies are currently being implemented by collaborator NRM South under the Caring for our Country TWWHA Biosecurity Program. This program will provide infrastructure such as boot and vehicle washdown units, and deliver an education program (outlining hygiene measures /

14 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action biosecurity) to land managers, recreational park users, researchers etc. Its aim is to minimise the spread of pests, weeds and pathogens (including Bd) into the TWWHA.

217 4.1.1.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 218 The actions in this action group have been partially achieved through the development of a national disease strategy and various other strategies by 219 the states. However, one of the key actions, a coordinated national survey, has not been carried out. 220 Some of the actions under this action group are no longer relevant, as aside from through in few isolated areas, for example the Tasmanian 221 Wilderness World Heritage Area (TWWHA), it is no longer appropriate to prevent the large-scale spread of chytrid as the disease is now endemic in 222 most of the climatically suitable areas in Australia. Despite this, considerable effort has been expended to protect the few remaining isolated 223 uninfected amphibian populations. Various policy documents now exist in the jurisdictions that contain strategies to limit the risk of spreading 224 chytrid. However, there has been little coordination between the states in either policy development or surveying efforts for the presence and spread 225 of chytrid. 226 A national disease strategy has been prepared based on current best practices and the most recent research on chytrid fungus. Its possible inclusion as 227 a manual under AQUAVETPLAN is being explored.

228 4.1.2 Action group 1.2 – Reduce risk at source

229 4.1.2.1 Specified actions 230 Table 4.2 shows the actions under objective 1 - action group 1.2, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 231 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 232 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 233 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six.

15 of 91 Item 12.1.3

234 Table 4.2 Summary of actions towards the reduction of risk at source. Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action 1.2.1: Develop and The following work has been Gaps in knowledge still exist in key This action has largely been completed and has the implement a minimum set performed: areas such as: the effectiveness of potential to be very effective. of disease control treatments across many species; and The Commonwealth has funded the development by JCU standards for individuals, Disease control standards and how to demonstrate that (1) of the 1) Guidelines for captive breeding, raising and firms or organisations that monitoring in facilities individuals, and (2) groups, are restocking programs and 2) Hygiene protocols for the send amphibians to others, completely free of infection. control of diseases in Australian frogs (Murray et al. The ABC has now completed the or release amphibians to Most stakeholders have found this 2011b, c). These reports are publicly available on the development of the federally funded the wild, to prevent action highly effective at reducing risk departments’ website. 1) Guidelines for captive breeding, amphibian stock becoming of chytridiomycosis escaping from These standards for disease control will only be effective raising and restocking programs and infected with captive populations and also if implemented. It is important to note that the 2) Hygiene protocols for the control chytridiomycosis. The minimising the transmission of chytrid, implementation of the minimum set of disease standards of diseases in Australian frogs standards should address: both within and among sites, as a result refers to individuals, as well as organisations. Thus (Murray et al. 2011b, c) • quarantine of amphibians of field research on frogs. promoting a greater awareness of the existence and entering the facility; Disinfection purpose of these standards is essential for this action to • prevention of be effective. transmission between Additional disinfectants were tested The effectiveness of promising treatments for the disease tanks; against Bd. At the request of should be further investigated by the states and ACT, • isolation and Tasmanian Department of Primary followed by broad promotion of the outcomes. management of ill animals; Industries, Parks, Water and • disinfection of all water Environment (DPIPWE), JCU tested and waste prior to Bd against Phytoclean (used for discharge or disposal; Phytophthora sp. control) which was • disinfection of reusable effective against Bd. tanks and equipment; • postmortem examination Post mortem of dead amphibians; Frog post mortem technique • monitoring of stock for described by Karrie Rose in Wildlife chytridiomycosis; and Health Investigation Manual, 2007. • treatment protocol for Australian Registry of Wildlife amphibians prior to release Health - www. arwh.org or dispatch from the facility (Category 1). Treatment The review of antifungal treatment by JCU (Berger et al. 2010) shows

16 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action

that there are few proven treatments. Heat has been tested successfully on a few species but is not broadly applicable. The current widespread treatment protocol with itraconazole has not been adequately tested. Optimizing and validating itraconazole treatment is a priority. The JCU pathogenesis study (Voyles et al. 2009) showed that supplementing with electrolytes can improve clinical signs in sick frogs. Sam Young trialled this in combination with antifungals in three severely ill frogs and the success of this protocol demonstrates that this holds promise for intensive treatment of valuable individuals (Young et al. in press). Approval for scientific licences for research and management of frogs in NSW requires strict adherence to hygiene protocols. No releases to the wild are currently permitted in ACT except for threatened species reintroduction under licence. Captive populations and releases must conform to Amphibian Ark guidelines (Pessier and Mendelson 2010). The only releases so far have been captive-bred northern corroboree frogs in 2011, which were screened for chytrid fungus prior to release. Release site known to have chytrid present but

17 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action there were no suitable chytrid-free alternatives. No state-wide standards have been developed for Vic. Frog breeding facilities, such as the Amphibian Research Centre (ARC), located at Werribee, and Zoos Victoria, apply their own standards. Any captive to wild releases of frogs requires animal ethics committee approval, Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) Translocation Evaluation Panel approval and a DSE research permit. In SA captive to wild releases of frogs require approval from animal ethics committee and research permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). In Tas. one pilot assurance colony for the Tasmanian tree frog has been established at Bonorong Wildlife Park aiming to determine husbandry and captive breeding requirements for this species. They follow principles outlined in ‘A Manual for Control of Infectious Diseases in Amphibian Survival Assurance Colonies and Reintroduction Programs’. 1.2.2: Establish an This action has not been undertaken Not effective -very little benefit to be The value of this action to amphibian conservation accreditation system for in any jurisdiction. gained from this action would possibly not justify the effort required to commercial facilities that implement it. However, with increasing awareness in sell amphibians to certify biosecurity and disease control, accreditation may be a chytridiomycosis-free marketing advantage for commercial facilities. In status after meeting criteria addition, as more facilities become accredited as chytrid

18 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action based on the points in free, could provide more awareness across a broader Action 1.2.1 (Category 1). base. A cost benefit analysis may be useful before deciding that this action has no merit. Currently this action has not been achieved and therefore was not effective. Stakeholders see this action as potentially useful but a lower priority due to limited resourcing. 1.2.3: For areas with Most jurisdictions have no specific Very little known about this action and If protocols are to be developed to manage translocated chytridiomycosis, the same protocol to deal with accidentally very little comment was received. amphibians, they could cover both chytrid free and protocol to manage translocated amphibians but the Therefore it is considered to have not chytrid-infected areas as a matter of course. Managing accidentally translocated incidence of this occurring was been effective. translocated amphibians requires a degree of knowledge amphibians should be considered by most stakeholders to Victoria expressed concerns that the on what defines a translocated amphibian and what to do implemented as listed for be quite low and has mostly been incidence of accidental translocations about it. Given that the incidence of translocation has areas that are dealt with on a case-by-case basis. may actually be higher than what has been reported by most stakeholders to be relatively low, chytridiomycosis-free However, Vic. reports a significant been reported - due to lack of public this action may not be a high priority. However, (Category 2) (see Action number of accidentally translocated awareness. concerns were raised by some stakeholders regarding the 1.4.1). frogs. risks posed to threatened populations from even a low The ACT reported that no number of translocations of infected frogs. accidentally translocated amphibians Some stakeholders saw no further requirement for this in the ACT have been released. action, however others (Vic. in particular) would like to see this action remain a priority. 1.2.4: Assist industries that Some work towards this action has Limited comments received indicate If chytrid poses no threat to an industry, asking them to pose the greatest risk of been undertaken by the Qld that this action could be effective. implement an additional procedure would be an extra accidental translocation of government who performed extensive However, it was thought that the cost in the form of staff and time, which would amphibians (including sampling of frogs in banana limited value of this action to essentially not benefit them. tadpoles) to develop plantations in North Qld with the aim amphibian conservation would not If preventing the accidental translocation of amphibians protocols to prevent of understanding the risks posed justify the effort required to implement as far as is practicable was mandatory, i.e. linked to a amphibians entering through accidental translocation of such a strategy and it relies heavily on licence or export permit, there would more incentive to produce nursery or other frogs in bananas (and other effective communication with industry carry this action out. material prior to horticultural produce and plant to incorporate protocols into standard The magnitude of risk regarding translocation issues for movement. Strategies used nursery material). Only one frog in a operating procedures. various industries in different areas needs to be in the banana industry at large sample was found to have quantified, so that the requirement for action can be Tully, Qld could provide a chytrid fungus. prioritised. For example, the banana industry carries a good model for other JCU has provided some advice to the high level of risk of accidental translocations. While the industries (Category 3). banana industry to mitigate risks. degree to which translocation occurs remains unknown None of the other jurisdictions have or not-reported, this action cannot be effective.

19 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action implemented this action except for Many stakeholders see no further requirement for this Tas., who has addressed accidental action; however Vic. in particular would like to see this translocation of amphibians via action remain a priority as to not progress it poses an activities such as extracting pond ongoing risk. water for fire-fighting or road spraying in the Caring for our Country TWWHA Biosecurity Program. Mitigation measures and associated SOPs will be developed.

235 4.1.2.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 236 This objective of this action group has been partially met by the development of the two reports: “Guidelines for captive breeding, raising and 237 restocking programs” and “Hygiene protocols for the control of diseases in Australian frogs”, which are publicly available on the departments’ 238 website (see list at Attachment C). However, these standards for disease control will require ongoing implementation to be effective. It is also 239 essential to promote a greater awareness of the existence and purpose of these standards amongst the general public and industry as the level of 240 awareness of the risks posed by translocated amphibians is currently very low. 241 242 The other actions in this group were not achieved to any great extent. The incidence of accidental translocation of frogs over the last six years was 243 reported by most stakeholders to be relatively low, with the notable exception of Victoria. However, concerns remain that even a relatively small 244 number of accidental translocations of infected amphibians posed a very high risk to threatened populations. 245

246 4.1.3 Action group 1.3 – Reduce risk at destination

247 4.1.3.1 Specified actions 248 Table 4.3 shows the actions under objective 1 - action group 1.3, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 249 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 250 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 251 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six.

20 of 91 Item 12.1.3

252 Table 4.3 Summary of actions towards the reduction of risk at destination. Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action 1.3.1: Prevent the release The ABC has provided advice in the Limited comments received indicate Issues around enforcing this action so that it is effective of amphibians taken form of guidelines and protocols that this action could be considered include: what groups are releasing amphibians, who certifies from areas with ( Murray et al. 2011b, c). effective but further information it and who polices it on the ground. Without national chytridiomycosis into Approval for amphibian translocation would be useful. coordination, the variation in the aforementioned processes chytridiomycosis free programs in NSW requires across the many jurisdictions has the potential to render this areas. Their captive-bred demonstration that released individuals action ineffective at a national level. progeny may, however, will be free from chytrid infection. be released into No known chytrid-free areas in the ACT. chytridiomycosis-free However, captive populations and areas if sourced from a releases are according to Pessier and chytridiomycosis-free Mendelson (2010), which also meet accredited facility guidelines for this TAP. (Category 4). In Vic., areas that are “chytrid-free” are protected via various mechanisms, including strict hygiene protocols for researchers and pre-release testing for chytrid prior to any captive to wild movement of frogs (e.g., reintroduction following captive breeding). A recently discovered population of the threatened Alpine Tree Frog is believed to occur in a chytrid-free area (see refs); this site is subject to very stringent hygiene protocols. Frog researchers in Vic. are also making considerable efforts to educate colleagues and relevant organisations (e.g., Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water, CMAs), about chytridiomycosis and hygiene protocols. Tas. will incorporate this action into any future translocation plan

21 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action 1.3.2: Prevent release of As above for NSW, ACT, Tas. and Vic. Limited stakeholder comments were There are a lot of ‘ifs’ that need to be adhered to for release amphibians derived from WA commented that this action is bad received, those that were submitted of amphibians to be carried out according to this action. This areas with management for population genetics. indicate that this action has been action disregards population genetic issues in attempting to chytridiomycosis into Comments were received from Qld effective in minimising the spread of control the spread if chytrid through release programs. chytrid contaminated suggesting that this action is not practical chytrid among sites. This action has only been partially effective in that controls areas. However, release as it makes no distinction between (a) for chytrid need to be in place before any releases occur, but can be permitted if these animals derived from chytrid -positive requires close examination of what conservation outcomes it amphibians are: areas being released into different is trying to achieve, given that many of the ‘ifs’ are not cost • sourced from a chytrid-positive areas and (b) animals effective or accessible to a wide variety of people and chytridiomycosis-free from chytrid-positive areas being organisations. accredited facility; and released back at their site of origin. • tested and shown to be chytridiomycosis-free prior to release (Category 4). If tadpoles are originally sourced from the release site, release can be permitted if the amphibians have been treated prior to release with a technique with very high efficacy against chytridiomycosis and a sample has been tested and shown to be chytridiomycosis-free prior to release. 1.3.3: Subject any None of the jurisdictions has a formal Potentially effective but difficult to This action could in essence be effective, but it needs to be amphibians that are policy to deal with accidentally implement as it is impractical due to implemented, supported and promoted at national and state accidentally translocated translocated frogs. However, the ACT the large scope levels to engage people on the ground, who acquire goods in agricultural produce or and NSW appear to have implemented with accidentally translocated amphibians. nursery material into this action wherever possible via various Community groups supporting frogs may have a key role in chytridiomycosis-free methods. implementing this action, as they have more of an accessible areas to quarantine, and In SA, accidentally translocated cane presence than government agencies. If unaware of issues either painless toads will be destroyed regardless of around chytrid, the public may contribute to accidental

22 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action destruction or treatment whether infected with Bd or not. translocation of amphibians through the release of frogs in and testing for any goods they have acquired. This action has only been as chytridiomycosis, prior effective as the knowledge of the person who finds to dissemination for translocated frogs, thus unquantified and unable to be permanent housing in assessed at this point, other than to say that there is no collections from which national strategy or policy to put this action into place. the specimens cannot be released to the wild (Category 4). 253

254 4.1.3.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat

255 This action group could in essence be effective, but it needs to be implemented, supported and promoted at national and state levels to engage people 256 on the ground. None of the jurisdictions has a formal policy to deal with accidentally translocated frogs so therefore the goals of this action 257 group were not achieved. As mentioned for the previous action group the level of risk to threatened populations posed by any translocations 258 could be quite high.

259 4.1.4 Action group 1.4 – Develop, implement and promote hygiene protocols

260 4.1.4.1 Specified actions 261 Table 4.4 shows the actions under objective 1 - action group 1.4, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 262 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 263 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 264 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 265 266 267 268 269 270

23 of 91 Item 12.1.3

271 Table 4.4 Summary of actions towards the development and implementation of hygiene protocols. Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action 1.4.1: Use existing state protocols The ABC has developed a hygiene This action was seen as generally This is a key action that has largely been implemented. for quarantine and handling protocol for field work that includes effective but the protocols are There seems to be substantial work on protocols and amphibians in chytridiomycosis- modification of the stringency of currently based on in vitro laboratory strategies around hygiene and quarantine, but more free areas as a basis to develop a disinfection methods needed after trials and theory and have not been work on evaluating the effect of these strategies in the national protocol (Category 1). calculating the risk for each frog tested under field conditions. Modes field is required, before any effective national strategy This could potentially be population, type of work and people of anthropogenic transmission also can be developed. modelled on the Hygiene Protocol involved ( Phillott et al. 2010). They then require research. The hygiene protocols for Australian amphibians report for the Control of Disease in developed hygiene protocols for has been developed by JCU and made available on the Frogs prepared and implemented Australian amphibians which were departments’ website. by New South Wales National submitted as a report to the Australian Parks and Wildlife Service and Government ( Murray et al. 2011b, c). informed by research results from Most jurisdictions have been using the Action 3.4.3 and experience NSW Hygiene Protocol or Hygiene guidelines developed by Phillott et al. (2010) as the basis for their procedures. Procedure used in ACT is consistent with NSW guidelines and Skerratt et al. (2010) Vic. does not have any existing state protocols; however they have previously used the NSW guidelines or Phillott et al. (2010). Tas. has hygiene and handling protocols which incorporate the same principles as NSW hygiene protocols. 1.4.2: Implement field hygiene The ABC provided advice based on This TAP action has been quite well A lot of work on hygiene protocols has been carried protocols that aim to prevent research outcomes to the Tas. and Qld addressed and comments received out since the 2006 TAP. Jurisdictional field protocols transmission of amphibian chytrid governments on implementation of indicate that it has likely been may consist of a combination of documents, which fungus, that are not so rigorous as hygiene protocols (Please see effective at minimising the could be a replication of material and are more than to discourage or prevent research http://www.forestrytas.com.au/uploads/F transmission of chytrid, both within likely in various stages of relevance depending on on or study of amphibian ile/pdf/pdf2010/keepingitcleanweb.pdf and among sites, as a result of field subsequent work published after them, such as Phillott populations, and that realistically and research on frogs. et al. (2010). assess risks associated with all http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/register/p02 Given the cost and time to get such protocols to press users of water catchments 905aa.pdf ) and disseminated to field workers, the way in which

24 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action (Category 4). In Qld a technical manual "Hygiene new material is incorporated in existing best practise protocol for handling amphibians" (see documents should be seen as critical to facilitating the column 6) has been prepared to minimise effectiveness of this action. the risk of spread of Bd and other This action has been partially met through most pathogens through various activities that jurisdictions implementing or advocating some form of the QLD government controls/ hygiene protocol. However, the variable approaches authorises. This protocol needs to be have resulted in the action being only partially updated to include additional information effective. Some national coordination may be of in Phillott et al. (2010) benefit. Procedures used in NSW and ACT are This is a key action that requires the implementation by consistent with NSW guidelines and the states and territories of the protocols that have been Skerratt et al. (2010). developed in the previous action. Vic. advocate the use of the Hygiene Guidelines developed by Phillott et al. (2010). Tas. is aiming is to minimise the spread of pests, weeds and pathogens (including Bd) into the TWWHA by the use of biosecurity / hygiene principles based on ‘Keeping it Clean: A Tasmanian field hygiene manual to prevent the spread of freshwater pests and pathogens’. Hygiene protocols used in SA are adopted from a paper by Hyatt et al (2007). 1.4.3: Ensure licences and permits This action is very difficult to enforce This action was generally seen by This action is about ensuring that the appropriate for wildlife or flora studies or with regards to tourists, bushwalkers etc. stakeholders as being effective if information has been developed for target audiences other activities that have the With regards to research activities most properly implemented and complied and is disseminated with licences or other appropriate potential to transmit amphibian jurisdictions have procedures for with. However, the actual adherence forums. In some cases, manuals may not be the most chytrid fungus into including conditions on appropriate by field operators to the conditions is appropriate information to disseminate, as they are chytridiomycosis-free areas, hygiene protocols. not known. quite comprehensive and involved, and depending on include conditions that require the In Qld the technical manual "Hygiene the person, may not be utilised to the full. use of appropriate disinfection protocol for handling amphibians" Partially met, as manual and information exists, but strategies between sites using provides protocols to minimise the risk only effective only if properly implemented (most techniques other than drying as of spread of Bd and other pathogens likely by government agencies) with good compliance. listed in Table 3 of the through various activities that the QLD This action appears to have been implemented by most

25 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action background document (Category government controls/authorises. This of the jurisdictions, with the exception of WA and 4). protocol needs to be updated to include possibly SA. The actual compliance by the field additional information in Phillott et al. operators is outside this action but clearly relevant to (2010). Additionally the ABC has its effectiveness. provided advice on hygiene requirements for scientific permit holders. In NSW each licence application must adhere to the NSW protocols and is also considered as to whether additional protocols are required. In ACT procedures are consistent with NSW guidelines and Skerratt et al. (2010) and licence conditions request researchers to follow correct hygiene protocol in areas that have threatened species. The Vic. research permit system, various animal ethics committees and the DSE Translocation Evaluation Panel direct compliance with this action by people working with frogs. However, it is not routinely considered in all research permits and there are inadequate resources to ensure actual compliance in the field. Tas. biological research permits require the adoption of hygiene protocols. These are based on ‘Keeping it Clean: A Tasmanian field hygiene manual to prevent the spread of freshwater pests and pathogens’. WA has not had any requirements for several years.

26 of 91 Item 12.1.3

272 4.1.4.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 273 A lot of work on improving hygiene protocols has been carried out since 2006. The Hygiene protocols for the control of diseases in Australian 274 Frogs (Murray et al 2011c) report has been developed by leading researchers at James Cook University and made available on the departments’ 275 website. 276 277 This is a key action group that requires the implementation by the states and territories of the protocols that have been developed. Most jurisdictions 278 are implementing or advocating some form of hygiene protocol, but the variable approaches taken to date have resulted in the action being only 279 partially effective. It is also difficult to verify that protocols are adhered to in field situations. Further national coordination may be of benefit.

280 4.1.5 Action group 1.5 – Prevent release of B. dendrobatidis from laboratories

281 4.1.5.1 Specified actions 282 Table 4.5 shows the actions under objective 1 - action group 1.5, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 283 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 284 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 285 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 286 Table 4.5 Summary of actions to prevent release of B. Dendrobatidis from laboratories. Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action 1.5.1: Laboratories experimenting The only laboratories that claim to have Not possible to determine the general This action has been reported by a limited number of with B. dendrobatidis to follow complied with this action are JCU, effectiveness of action on the limited stakeholders to be effective and as having no PC2 (see glossary) protocols University of Newcastle and those in information provided. significant additional cost on top of experimental including sterilisation or Tas. procedures. disinfection of cultures, The situation is unknown for all other Issues rose at the workshop regarding PC24 procedures contaminated water or equipment jurisdictions. being too restrictive for most researchers. This may (by one of the techniques listed in need to be considered in the future. Table 3 of the background document). Drying should not be used as the sole technique (Category 4).

5 4 Refers to standard of certification for laboratories - Physical Containment Level 2 27 of 91 Item 12.1.3

287 4.1.5.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 288 This action was determined to have been partially met as it was not possible to comprehensively determine the degree of implementation but most 289 stakeholders indicated compliance with the action. 290 291 292 293 4.1.6 Conclusion of assessment of contribution to change of threat from Objective 1 294 It is concluded that while there has been some useful progress towards achieving the goals of Objective 1, Prevention of pathogen spread overall; 295 there has been limited contribution to the change of threat through this objective. Some of the actions were found to be no longer relevant, in part 296 due to new knowledge about the disease and in part due to the almost complete spread of the disease to all climatically suitable areas throughout 297 Australia. The stakeholders commented that at this point in time it would be much more useful to change the focus of the TAP from containing the 298 disease to suppressing and mitigating the effects of the disease on threatened amphibian species. 299

300 4.2 Objective 2: Recovery of listed threatened species 301 To promote the recovery of nationally listed threatened amphibian species that are known or perceived to be threatened by infection with 302 B. dendrobatidis. 303 Performance indicator: Strategies, protocols and actions to limit the impact of infection for each species are included in recovery actions, including 304 threatened species recovery plans.

305 4.2.1 Action group 2.1 – Manage threatened amphibians to minimise the threat from chytridiomycosis

306 4.2.1.1 Specified actions 307 Table 4.6 shows the actions under objective 2 - action group 2.1, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 308 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 309 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 310 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 311 312 313 314 315

28 of 91 Item 12.1.3

316 Table 4.6 Summary of actions to manage threatened amphibians to minimise the threat from chytridiomycosis Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action 2.1.1: Coordinate captive There is currently no up-to-date resource This action has been shown to be Currently there is no mechanism for organisations to breeding, captive identifying all captive breeding and potentially effective with some coordinate and share information regarding issues in husbandry and restocking reintroduction programs in Australia and their positive results (e.g. preventing the this action. Any repository for captive breeding data, programs across states and progress to date. The closest to a current web- extinction of the southern corroboree husbandry info and restocking programs would need to territories to maximise accessible list is the Amphibian Ark site, though frog). However, to date little national be accessible (establish who these people/ groups are) effectiveness of activities this is not up to date nor detailed. co-ordination has occurred and there and be updated with current info very regularly. and knowledge in Captive breeding programs are being is limited understanding of how self- However, many of the organisations involved in producing high quality undertaken at a number of institutions, in sustaining populations in the wild can captive breeding programs are members of Zoo and outcomes (Category 1). collaboration with the relevant state wildlife be achieved (e.g. facilitating selection Aquarium Australia (ZAA), an organisation who have authorities. The current programs occurring in for resistance, manipulating habitat, a team working on keeping their website up to date. Australia are listed below. assisted colonisation to new areas). Conservation of species through studbook programs is Taronga Zoo part of ZAA’s core business and there may be southern corroboree frog opportunity to coordinate and share captive breeding northern corroboree frog programs through this already established database/ green and golden bell frog website. A data sharing arrangement would need to be yellow-spotted bell frog investigated and what benefits and access to data each Booroolong frog group had, and how non-members would access and Alpine tree frog input data. The communication strategy outlined in Objective 4 Amphibian Research Centre would contribute to the coordination and knowledge southern corroboree frog sharing and therefore the future achievement of this spotted tree frog action. Booroolong frog Translocation could be an issue in restocking programs, and potential issues regarding translocation Melbourne Zoo have been raised in addressing various actions in southern corroboree frog Objective 1. southern barred frog This is a priority action that is still ongoing. Baw Baw frog

Healesville Sanctuary southern corroboree frog northern corroboree frog spotted tree frog

29 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve northern corroboree frog

Perth Zoo orange-bellied frog white-bellied frog sunset frog

Currumbin Sanctuary Eungella tinker frog

Bonorong Wildlife Park Tasmanian tree frog

The ABC has been conducting research on using immunity to chytridiomycosis to improve the success of restocking programs. This has been in collaboration with major reintroduction programs conducted by NSW government, Taronga Conservation Society and the Amphibian Research Centre. 2.1.2: Establish national There are currently no guidelines to standardise This action would be expected to The ABC has developed a captive husbandry manual, guidelines to standardise rearing techniques for captive breeding and effectively improve captive which addresses disease control (Murray et al. techniques for, and rearing of offspring. This is largely due to the husbandry – the report prepared by 2011b,c), which is an important component of captive approaches to, captive vast differences in the biology of the species JCU for the department should at breeding programs. However, it has been suggested breeding, raising and housed requiring often quite different least partly address this action, that due to the large biological differences between restocking programs techniques and approaches to captive breeding. however many questions seem to amphibian species, quite often different techniques and (Category 2). Steps have been made in recent years to bring remain about whether or not approaches to captive breeding are necessary. together current knowledge of amphibian approaches to captive breeding, This action has been effective at dealing with some husbandry. The American Zoological raising and restocking programs can single elements that may be generic to all amphibians, Association authored a manual on husbandry actually be standardised between such as captive husbandry, methods of isolation, water guidelines. species. circulation and sterilization. However, the action has The ABC has developed captive husbandry not been met in establishing national guidelines. guidelines for Australian amphibians which This action may not need any further work due to the addressed disease control standards (please see differences in techniques required for individual Action 1.2.1). These were submitted as a report species.

30 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action to the Australian Government ( Murray et al. 2011b, c). ACT has adopted best practice guidelines for its northern corroboree frog breeding program, consistent with Pessier and Mendelson (2010), and Young et al. (2007), and incorporates new information as it becomes available. 2.1.3: Expand knowledge Captive husbandry has not been encouraged by This action is considered to be This action has the potential to be very effective but of, and infrastructure for, the QLD government. However, Griffith effective, and has resulted in requires further work to fully implement it. The sharing captive breeding of University in conjunction with Currumbin improving captive husbandry and of knowledge should be a priority, as this would amphibians, particularly Wildlife Sanctuary have commenced a captive providing captive assurance colonies effectively reduce the work that needs to be done by with respect to species that husbandry project for the Eungella tinker frog in south-eastern mainland Australia. jurisdictions where the knowledge already exists, and are threatened or also known as the Liem's frog or Liem's tinker However it has only been partially allow the limited funding for research in this field to be particularly vulnerable to frog (Taudactylus liemi). implemented and little is still known put to more strategic use. chytridiomycosis Research undertaken by ABC (Shaw et al. about many of the threatened species, The communication strategy outlined in Objective 4 (Category 2). accepted) on poor health in captive collections some of which are in imminent would contribute to the coordination and knowledge of endangered NZ frogs led to findings of broad danger of extinction. sharing and therefore the future achievement of this relevance to maintaining frogs in captivity, Any information that increases the action. including improved nutritional status and non- efficiency of captive breeding fluoridated water. programs will be of significant value. Since the adoption of the Chytrid TAP, the Capacity building required in several following husbandry institutions have increased states such as Tas. and Qld. their capacity for facilitating conservation of frogs threatened by chytrid: Taronga Zoo, Zoos Vic., Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Currumbin Sanctuary. In NSW, captive breeding of the threatened Green and golden bell frog has been conducted at Newcastle University. ACT Government has established a captive breeding and release program for northern corroboree frogs. Northern corroboree frogs sent to Taronga Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary. Zoos Vic. has established specialised captive breeding facilities at Healesville Sanctuary and Melbourne Zoo for four species: spotted tree

31 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action frog, southern corroboree frog, stuttering frog or southern barred frog, and Baw Baw frog. In Tas. one pilot assurance colony for the Tasmanian tree frog has been established at Bonorong Wildlife Park. In WA, Perth Zoo with University of Western Australia sponsored two PhD students working on improved reproduction in frogs. 2.1.4: Monitor threatened Very little monitoring of amphibian populations This action is potentially effective It has been proposed that an accurate understanding of species of amphibians to is currently occurring in Qld. There is some and has shown benefits from its any species’ current distribution is essential for determine changes in monitoring of threatened amphibian populations limited implementation. However, in implementing an effective monitoring program, distribution and by universities but this information is not stored virtually all jurisdictions there are especially for frogs species threatened by chytrid, as abundance, prevalence and centrally. currently many threatened species well as being very resource intensive to do it properly deaths due to JCU has conducted population monitoring in about which little is known regarding and relate it to chytrid. chytridiomycosis north and south-east Qld. Extensive their distribution. This action could be effective at helping prioritise (Category 2). investigations of disease ecology in both frogs Monitoring programs were identified species of concern that need assistance to prevent and tadpoles have shown that: survivorship of by all stakeholders as critical for extinction and promote recovery. However, the infected frogs is reduced; Bd continues to informing conservation programs for threatened species that have the same level of risk from severely impact amphibian populations where it the preservation of threatened chytrid need to be recognised so that appropriate action is endemic although the effects are not obvious species. can be undertaken. unless intensive population studies are None of the threatened frog species listed at the time of conducted; and there is evidence for selection the making of the TAP in 2006 have decreased in their for innate immunity/tolerance within species. threatened status. However, four species have Monitoring in NSW and Qld has shown increased in their threatened status since 2006, seasonal changes in prevalence and infection including one species being added to the threatened load. When climatic conditions are optimal then list. In many cases, there has been insufficient prevalence and intensity of infection of Bd can monitoring and evaluation of the species to understand be very high and chytridiomycosis can cause the population dynamics and there may also be other significant morbidity and mortality where significant threats to those species, such as habitat loss, endemic. meaning that the species has not had a chance to The following species threatened by chytrid are recover. It is also not possible to determine whether the focus of monitoring programs in south-east chytrid fungus is likely to become a key threatening NSW: southern and northern corroboree frogs, process to amphibians that are currently not threatened. spotted tree frog, Alpine tree frog, yellow spotted bell frog. Annual monitoring program for northern

32 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action corroboree frogs in the ACT since 1985. In Vic. there are various specific programs for monitoring some threatened frog species. Funding is limited and the two long term monitoring programs (spotted tree frog and Baw Baw frog) have persisted due to the dedication of individual researchers. Other monitoring programs target Booroolong frogs, Alpine tree frogs and growling grass frogs. Tas. has monitoring programs for its two threatened amphibian species, green and gold frog and the striped marsh frog. The current and historic distribution of both species has been modelled. Pilot survey on the distribution of Bd on the southern bell frog has been conducted in two bioregions in South Australia: the Murray- Darling Basin and south-eastern SA. The WA government has monitoring protocols for population size of three threatened frog species but no specific chytrid monitoring protocols. 2.1.5: Use This action has not been implemented by the No effective actions have taken place Preliminary work on cryopreservation has been cryopreservation for states as a conservation measure. as a direct result of the TAP. undertaken (Mahony & Clulow, unpublished). This has Australian amphibian There is an unpublished report None of the seven “presumed extinct not been a top priority for promoting conservation in species, with priority on “Cryopreservation and Reconstitution species” of Australian frogs has a the past, but may be important and have very real threatened species, in such Technologies: A Proposal to Establish A national repository of frozen tissues benefits now that large declines of many frog species a manner as to allow Genome Resource Bank For Threatened despite the technology for the and populations have occurred in such a short cloning in the future or Australian Amphibians” (compiled by Mahony cryopreservation of cells (including timeframe. have gametes preserved to & Clulow, unpublished report) that was used by spermatozoa), tissue and cell culture Once cryopreservation techniques have been allow artificial breeding JCU in the preparation of their reports: lines being well established. successfully developed for threatened species, progeny (Category 2). guidelines for captive breeding and hygiene No national approach to genome must be able to be restocked into the environment protocols (Murray et al. 2011b, c). banking has been established. (maintaining population genetics) and be able to Some significant research has been conducted at survive chytrid, the strains and distribution that exist at several institutions and an effective international that time. collaboration for genome banking and assisted This action has not been met and further work is

33 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action reproductive technologies is operating. Sperm required. storage is now reasonably well established. Guidelines are necessary for strategies and management of genome resource banks. 2.1.6: Restock species that This action has not been undertaken in Qld. Most stakeholders see this is a critical While threatened frog species exist in captivity, it are under severe threat The ABC has been conducting research on action to ensure the short-term would be a waste of resources to re-introduce them into from infection with using immunity to chytridiomycosis to improve survival of some of the most an environment where there is a significant risk to their chytridiomycosis using the success of restocking programs. This has threatened species. survival from chytrid. This action is critical, but a captive-raised and captive- been in collaboration with major reintroduction However, more work is required on balanced and perhaps conservative approach needs to bred stock. Implement this programs conducted by the NSW government, understanding the interactions be considered to ensure the limited resources available under an adaptive Taronga Conservation Society and the between chytrid and frog survival in for captive breeding produce the best conservation management framework Amphibian Research Centre. reintroduction programs and outcomes. that heeds relevant state, Preliminary investigations being carried out at techniques to achieve self-sustaining This action has been partially effective in that captive national and international JCU with respect to possible restocking and populations in the wild need to be breeding and re-stocking programs have progressed (IUCN) standards on translocations of the armoured mistfrog. developed. with improved success. However, the progress of translocations and monitor In NSW, restocking/reintroduction programs are restocking programs needs to be monitored over years the outcome (Category 3). currently being undertaken in south-eastern (perhaps outside the time frame of the TAP) in order to NSW for: southern and northern corroboree frog really assess the value and effectiveness of this action. and spotted tree frog. While these programs Identified as a high priority. have demonstrated the capacity to effectively reintroduce captive bred/reared individuals back to the wild, self-sustaining populations have not been achieved. Several restocking (translocation) projects involving the green and golden bell frog have occurred in NSW. The projects have followed the international (IUCN) and state guidelines on translocation. The outcomes have been closely monitored and some outcomes have been reported in the scientific literature, others await publication. Two large industry sponsored programs that involve a large captive breeding program, habitat restoration and reintroduction of the threatened green and golden bell frog are currently underway in NSW. Mitigation against

34 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action chytrid is a key component. Reintroduction program undertaken in ACT for northern corroboree frog. Re-stocking programs have occurred for spotted tree frogs in Buffalo National Park, and for Booroolong frogs in north-eastern Vic. No amphibian reintroductions or translocation have occurred in Tas. or SA to date. In WA the white-bellied frog or creek frog and sunset frog both had releases of captive bred stocks in 2011. 2.1.7: Include strategies to Recovery plans for Queensland's threatened Generally seen as potentially It should be noted that incorporating similar strategies limit the impact of frogs are out of date. However, work is effective but hasn’t been in many recovery plans may not be an optimal way to infection with the proceeding at JCU to develop strategies to limit implemented and needs to be adopted limit the impact of chytrid, especially if frequent amphibian chytrid in the impact of chytrid. across states and territories. updating is required. infected species as a Conservation planning for all threatened frog This action is important and needs to be incorporated component of threatened species in NSW considers management of into relevant recovery plans, and regional and local species recovery plans and chytrid impacts. Experimental reintroduction management plans. relevant regional and local was funded as a component of the green and management plans golden bell frog recovery plan. (Category 4). ACT has identified strategies but it is unclear as to whether this is a part of the relevant recovery plan. Issues surrounding chytridiomycosis are now routinely included in most relevant documents produced in Victoria. Strategies to minimise impact of growling grass frog (also known as Southern bell frog, Southern bell frog, green and golden frog, warty swamp frog) included in Tasmanian Chytrid Management Plan. SA has included relevant objectives and actions in its green and golden bell frog recovery plan. In WA a new recovery plan is under consideration for both threatened amphibian species.

35 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action

2.1.8: Monitor species that In Qld, there is some monitoring of populations Most stakeholders consider this This action is currently being undertaken by most are currently of the Wallum sedge frog by the QLD action reasonably effective, states and the ACT. However, modification to the chytridiomycosis-free (and government but no information is available on particularly in prioritising species for action may be required to consider the situation in WA. are shown to be resistant to the status of Bd. Populations of this species biosecurity and emergency response. Models predicting distribution of chytrid may not chytridiomycosis by the have also been recently monitored by Griffith This action is generally conducted as predict necessarily how a species / population will be standard laboratory University. part of field surveys for threatened affected, it may just provide an indication as to where experimental model in Research by K. Hauselberger (Ph.D. thesis JCU) species. However, there is currently positive detections will be found but not necessarily Action 3.3.3) at a lower has established that microhylid frogs in the Wet no mechanism to share this declines or disease (e.g. WA) level than species that are Tropics are (1) largely free from infection by Bd information. susceptible (Category 4). in the field; (2) susceptible to infection by Bd in WA considers this action very risky the laboratory, but the one species tested, Ornate for their situation – if the Skerratt et nursery frog (Cophixalus ornatus), rapidly al. protocols were followed in WA no clears infections and does not develop signs of frogs would be monitored as just chytridiomycosis; (3) at least some populations about all breed in temporary ponds. appear to have been stable at high abundances since the mid-1990s despite being in regions where extensive declines have occurred in hylid frogs (Hauselberger thesis, Hauselberger, K., & Alford, R. (2005)). In NSW, some work has been done on susceptibility differences between co-occurring species with different decline patterns. This has shown that the non-declining striped marsh frog or brown striped frog (Limnodynastes peronii) possesses a mechanism to inhibit and reverse the progression of infection. In south-east NSW, only species perceived highly threatened by chytrid are the focus of targeted monitoring programs so little information is available on less susceptible species. This action has not been progressed in ACT. Resistance has not been established for Vic. species. There are no monitoring programs for species that are considered to be resistant. In Tas. current research targeting highly

36 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action susceptible Tasmanian tree frog and secondarily another endemic species of unknown susceptibility, the Tasmanian froglet (Crinia tasmaniensis). Chytrid status at same sites also monitored. Reservoir resistant species monitored at the same sites as endemic susceptible species as they probably play an important role in transmission. Eastern Australian data suggest chytrid is rare or non-existent in species in temporary water bodies; however chytrid has been detected in frog species associated with ephemeral water bodies in WA. 2.1.9: Apply more Qld has found it difficult to enforce Restricted This action is generally considered This action has been met where necessary. stringent quarantine and Access Areas in protected areas to protect effective as it identifies that it is not hygiene protocols, than vulnerable populations from non-essential visits. possible or necessary to adopt the those specified in Actions R. Puschendorf, R. Alford, and others are highest level of quarantine across all 1.4.2, 1.4.3 and 1.5.1 to attempting to establish quarantine protocols for frog sites populations of amphibians the armoured mistfrog, which was discovered in that are identified as being a single population in 2008. particularly vulnerable to An area in Kosciuszko National Park that has extinction (Category 4). been identified as chytrid-free, has the additional quarantine procedures: Visiting this site does not follow visits to other frog sites on any particular fieldtrip; all clothing and equipment taken to the site must be sterilised prior to entering the site. ACT has strict protocols adopted, consistent with this action. In Tas. ‘Keeping it Clean; A Tasmanian field hygiene manual to prevent the spread of freshwater pests and pathogens’ provides general hygiene protocols and also a risk assessment approach to increase level of hygiene in high risk areas. Only one threatened frog species in SA the

37 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action growling grass frog, (southern bell frog, green and golden frog, warty swamp frog) and both populations coexist with chytrid fungus. All three threatened species in WA co-exist with chytrid – no new protocol is likely to have any impact on risk.

317 4.2.1.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 318 Some key components of this important action group and objective have been partially achieved: 319 Researchers at the James Cook University (Murray et al. 2011b,c) developed a captive husbandry manual that addresses disease control, but national 320 guidelines have not been established. Additionally, due to the large biological differences between amphibian species, quite often different 321 techniques and approaches to captive breeding are necessary. 322 Currently there is no mechanism for stakeholders to coordinate and share information on captive breeding of amphibians but the proposed 323 communication strategy outlined in Objective 4 would be expected to contribute to the future achievement of this goal. 324 Captive breeding and re-stocking programs have progressed with improved success. However, more work is required on understanding of the 325 interactions between chytrid and frog survival in reintroduction programs and also techniques to achieve self-sustaining populations in the wild need 326 to be developed. Most stakeholders see this is a high priority to ensure the short-term survival of some of the most threatened species. 327 328 Many other actions under this objective were not achieved. 329 Monitoring programs were identified by all stakeholders as critical for informing conservation programs for the preservation of threatened species. 330 However, in virtually all jurisdictions there are currently many threatened species about which little is known regarding their distribution, mainly due 331 to resource constraints. 332 There has been no cryopreservation of threatened amphibian species in Australia and no national approach to genome banking has been established. 333 334 4.2.2 Conclusion of assessment of contribution to change of threat from Objective 2 335 336 In conclusion, under Objective 2: Recovery of listed threatened species there has been important work undertaken to minimise the threat to and 337 improve the recovery of listed threatened amphibian species but there is still much to be done. Priorities include: coordinated monitoring and 338 surveillance programs; captive breeding and reintroduction protocols; and the establishment of a genome bank. The majority of the work to date has 339 been supported by funding from independent sources and its completion and implementation requires further funding and resources. When assessing 340 actions taken under this objective the conclusion is that the actions have made a very limited contribution to threat abatement. There has been no

38 of 91 Item 12.1.3

341 evidence to suggest an improvement in the status of any of the identified threatened amphibians. None of the threatened frog species listed at the 342 time of the making of the TAP in 2006 have decreased in their threatened status. However, four species have increased in their threatened status 343 since 2006, including one species being added to the threatened list. In many cases, there has been insufficient monitoring and evaluation of the 344 species to understand the population dynamics and there may also be other significant threats to those species, such as habitat loss, meaning that the 345 species has not had a chance to recover. It is also not possible to determine whether chytrid fungus is likely to become a key threatening process to 346 amphibians that are currently not threatened.

347 4.3 Objective 3: Research and monitoring 348 To improve the effectiveness and efficiency or the management of infection with amphibian chytrid through appropriate research and 349 monitoring programmes. 350 Performance indicators: 1. Standardised diagnostic tools are used to inform an understanding of the national distribution and prevalence of the 351 disease. 2. Management strategies are informed of emerging information provided through research. 352 353 The amphibian chytrid was first identified in 1998. While significant progress has been made in understanding the disease, its biology in the 354 environment is virtually unknown. This is a major obstacle to developing evidence-based control measures. Control strategies can be proposed with 355 our current knowledge, but the poor understanding of how B. dendrobatidis behaves in the environment needs to be remedied. Ensuring that field 356 experience and research are used to further improve management programs is an important element of this plan. Adaptive management approaches, 357 which experimentally test existing and new management techniques, will be encouraged. By measuring the effectiveness of different management 358 techniques in achieving the recovery of threatened species, we will improve our ability to combat the threat posed by infection with the amphibian 359 chytrid.

360 4.3.1 Action group 3.1 – Develop diagnostic tools

361 4.3.1.1 Specified actions 362 Table 4.7 shows the actions under objective 3 - action group 3.1, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 363 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 364 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 365 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 366 367 368 369 Table 4.7 Summary of actions towards the development of diagnostic tools.

39 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Action 3.1.1: Trial the Progress has been achieved towards this This action has been effective, as Real-time PCR is now the preferred test for amphibian real-time PCR test for objective (Kriger et al. 2006, Hyatt et al. 2007, research has been carried out populations, although the acquisition and operational chytridiomycosis in a field Garland et al. 2011, and Skerratt et al. 2011). comparing qPCR vs. histology costs are more expensive than alternatives. Garland et situation and compare for Kriger et al. (2006) initiated work comparing (Skerratt et al. 2011), and further al. (2011) found that conventional PCR, using sensitivity against the histology with real-time PCR. Hyatt et al. comparing conventional PCR with amplification combined with assays other than histological examination of (2007) further developed a sampling and qPCR (Garland et al. 2011). Taqman, was a sensitive cost effective alternative to toe clips (Category 1). detection strategy and Skerratt et al. (2011) Skerratt et al. (2011) recommend that real-time PCR. Although histology of toe clips is less validated the diagnostic tests in wild amphibian the accuracy of PCR tests should be sensitive, it can still be useful to diagnose infection, the populations. Skerratt et al. (2011) found that the further investigated in laboratories severity of the infection and/or the pathology in the Taqman real-time PCR (qPCR) test was three and wild populations different to skin (Skerratt et al. 2011). times as sensitive (72 per cent) as histology those of this study and the laboratory Both tests have a role to play, but given that PCR can (26.5 per cent) in wild amphibian populations studies of Hyatt et al. (2007) as detect chytrid at lower levels, issues such as cost because qPCR is able to detect lower intensity diagnostic tests results will differ effectiveness, contamination and skilled testers are infection compared with histology. where chytridiomycosis has been important for this test to be readily available. Other work carried out to achieve more introduced into a naive population This action has been effective and achieved - in that sensitive results using real-time PCR include compared with relatively immune or comparison of sensitivity between histology and PCR storing and transporting samples to minimise recovering populations. have been conducted. However further comparisons cross contamination (Skerratt et al. 2011) and carried out under a wider variety of conditions would minimise the effect of temperatures on the undoubtedly continue to validate the sensitivity results amount of DNA in the sample (Van Sluys et al. already achieved. 2008). Action 3.1.2: Evaluate Many jurisdictions have not undertaken work on The qPCR test is widely used to test This is an important action, given the progress made pooling samples as a cost this action. No work on this action has been presence/ absence and prevalence of with qPCR testing since implementation of the last effective technique for undertaken in Vic. and ACT. Tas. reported that chytrid for management purposes, TAP in 2006. As qPCR testing is expensive to set up surveying large numbers testing animals from positive pools has not such as surveillance and monitoring, due to initial capital expenditure, the efficiency of of animals using the real- proven to be cost effective. They either analyse in research and advising industry, but pooling samples has relevance, given limited funding time PCR test, with swabs individually or pool samples in groups of the expense of the method may to conduct such work. However, it appears that more subsequent testing of three to minimise the loss of sensitivity. outweigh the benefits. work needs to be done to minimise the occurrence of individual samples in JCU reported on recent research. Pooling However, pooling samples with false negatives in pooled samples, in order for pooling positive pools (Category samples for testing with subsequent testing of subsequent testing of individual of samples to be accurate and cost effective. 1). individual samples in positive pools lowered the samples from positive pools is This action has been partially completed. sensitivity of the qPCR when only one swab of thought to be cost effective, but only the five in the batch was positive at a very low if chytridiomycosis is at lower intensity of infection in Fleay’s frog (Skerratt et prevalence and the possibility of false al. 2010a). It is also likely that samples from negatives are acceptable (Garland et this species had a high level of inhibition of the al. Unpublished - JCU submission).

40 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action qPCR. Approximately 70 per cent of samples from this species had inhibition based on subsequent testing with an internal positive control, which would have contributed to the low levels of Bd detected by the qPCR (Hines 2007). Hyatt et al. (2007) said that the maximum number of samples that could be pooled without lowering the sensitivity of the Taqman assay was five, which in essence could provide some cost efficiencies. However, they also reported an incidence of false negative in a pool of five field samples that returned a negative result, one low level (11 zoospore equivalents) positive was detected when samples were reanalysed individually. JCU suggested that it is possible to concentrate samples to overcome the dilution effect of pooling samples, but no further information was provided. They also cited Garland et al. (unpublished findings) in reporting that pooling samples with subsequent testing of individual samples in positive pools is only cost effective if chytridiomycosis is at low prevalence and lower sensitivity is acceptable. 3.1.3: Determine the Limited work has been carried out for this Currently there is no consensus on The limited work on this action has raised further sensitivity of using action and thus limited information is available. whether tadpoles provide reliable questions about the sensitivity of using tadpoles. A tadpoles for surveying for Results from several projects suggest that data for determining the distribution strategic experimental design is still needed to address chytridiomycosis and tadpoles do not provide a reliable indication of of chytrid, despite them being issues of whether species, landscape and ecosystem compare with surveys chytrid presence in an area, such as in species routinely used in surveys for chytrid. have an important part in determining the reliability of using adults and juveniles from north-eastern Victoria (Hunter et al. 2009, Using juveniles is thought to be data from tadpoles. This may be of benefit nationally, in the same population Clemann et al. 2010, Howard et al. 2011) and useful a useful way to develop survey in terms of cost effective surveillance and monitoring (Category 1). two species in Kosciuszko National Park, where techniques, providing some cost methods in the future. adults were found to be more sensitive to effective benefits for surveillance and This action has partially been achieved. chytrid. However, tadpoles may be more monitoring that should not be sensitive for some ecological groups such as overlooked.

41 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action torrent adapted tadpoles, suggesting that tadpole sensitivity to chytrid may be species, or landscape, or ecosystem specific. 3.1.4: Develop an effective Qld, NSW and Tas. have conducted several Further laboratory and field Such a tool has a potentially important role in tool for studying studies on Bd in the environment. Qld experiments are required to provide a informing biosecurity and large scale landscape testing B. dendrobatidis in the specifically looking at various environmental sensitive and usable test for the for chytrid. Given the progression of the qPCR test to environment to improve sampling methods such as swabbing, water presence of chytrid in water bodies. detect chytrid with a high degree of sensitivity, further the understanding of the filtration, DNA extraction protocols and the In addition, refining water testing work needs to be done to concentrate chytrid in biology and occurrence of real-time PCR test (Skerratt et al. 2010b, using filtration or PCR so that large water/environmental samples so tests are practicable the amphibian chytrid in Cashins 2010, PhD Thesis), and Tas. focused on volumes are not needed is also and the sensitivity of qPCR tests is not compromised the environment. The most detection of DNA in samples (Ficetola et al. important. due to how environmental samples are processed. promising is the real-time 2008). Methods of concentrating water for Controlled tests concentrating Through a federally funded project the Taronga PCR test currently being qPCR testing, including centrifugation, freeze zoospores by various methods have Conservation Society (Phalen et al 2011) has developed by AAHL drying and filtering, have been investigated produced results that cannot be developed a promising new technique to detect chytrid (Category 1). (Hunter 2009, Honours thesis). While applied with confidence to the field fungus. The Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification centrifugation looks the most promising, work is as yet. It has been suggested that test (LAMP test), is a new diagnostic test for use in the still ongoing (Uni of Newcastle). ACT reported chytrid survey protocols need to be field. It is six times more sensitive than the polymerase that no work has been undertaken, and other tailored specifically for the target chain reaction (PCR test). The abstract is currently jurisdictions did not comment. system. Hence relevant protocols available on the departments’ website. The paper will would need to be included in the be published after further verification of the technique survey techniques for different is undertaken. systems. A lot of effort and resources have been concentrated on this action and much has been achieved. However, further work is required to complete this important action. 3.1.5: Develop criteria for Skerratt et al. (2008) designed a survey protocol A survey protocol has been The most current information regarding the distribution a wide-scale survey to provide a simple and standard method for developed. However, there is of chytrid is from Murray et al. (2010). The data protocol applicable at the sampling all wild frog populations in Australia contention as to whether the represent the compilation of all available/ accessible national level and carry out for infection with Bd. It aims to provide surveying element of the objective data on the occurrence of Bd in Australia as of 2008. a survey in priorities for surveillance and justification for has been achieved, as areas outside This is a very good starting point, as the data are chytridiomycosis-free and the extrapolation of results to minimise the its known spatial and temporal continent wide, from 821 sites in Australia, including chytrid contaminated areas number of populations that need to be surveyed. distribution have not been adequately 10183 records from over 80 contributors, from 1956- (Category 1). Skerratt et al. (2008) suggest that splitting the surveyed. The current accepted 2007. continent into regions and allocating frogs to distribution of chytrid has not been However, if areas outside of the known chytrid zones groups based on their risk to Bd can reduce the tested, as a national systematic and have not been systematically surveyed and archived size of the task while providing good results to coordinated survey has not been specimens remain untested, the national distribution

42 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action assist with management. This protocol is carried out. and the story of its spread may be incomplete. designed to be used for a variety of groups from Skerratt et al. (2008) acknowledge A systematic and coordinated national survey of the professional and animal herpetologists, that this protocol is not static, and distribution of chytrid, in conjunction with its historic conservation groups and other institutions. that it should be adjusted as new rise to epidemic status, is critical in order to manage its Skerratt et al. (2010) suggest that the protocol is research on chytridiomycosis and its further spread and preserve biodiversity through feasible and flexible, and that results derived distribution comes to light. They also protecting highly vulnerable species and areas. Any from the survey protocol agreed with previously suggest that crucial information on national distribution survey should consider the collected opportunistic data. the distribution of chytrid is lacking alternative questions discussed in the column to the in some species and groups, thus a left. more targeted approach for these Therefore, this action has been completed for the groups would help fill in the development of a survey protocol but the action to distribution gap initially. undertake a systematic survey of Bd free and Bd Studies have suggested an iterative contaminated areas has not been done. process in modelling distribution, whereby the models can be used to identify surveillance and monitoring priorities. This includes the potential to tailor the allocation of resources to areas where knowledge gaps exist, but this depends entirely on whether we are interested in 1) identifying new hosts, 2) reducing sampling bias, 3) elucidating distribution patterns more accurately? Or other priorities? 3.1.6: Develop a rapid in- The Australian Government commissioned the In summary, Phalen et al. (2011) This action has been achieved, but the full work of field test to detect development of a rapid field test in 2011. The developed a rapid test to detect the Phalen et al. (2011) has not yet been published due to chytridiomycosis in work is currently being published, and a chytrid fungus B. dendrobatidis at a the need for further verification of the method, amphibians at a high summary is available on the environment.gov.au high specificity and sensitivity. They therefore the methodology for the LAMP rapid field specificity and sensitivity website. demonstrated that this test was more test is not yet available to field workers. Publication is for use in surveys to sensitive at detecting the chytrid dependent on availability of funding for the further determine distribution of fungus in environmental water testing of the method. chytridiomycosis samples compared with conventional (Category 3). species-specific PCR techniques. The benefits of LAMP include that it is less prone to the presence of irrelevant DNA than PCR; it

43 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action amplifies DNA with a high efficiency, is highly specific for the target sequence and is quick and easy to perform using only a heat block or a water bath (Notomi et al. 2000). 3.1.7: Establish a national The CSIRO’s Australian Animal Health This action has been identified as This action had been thought to have been achieved by quality accredited Laboratory (AAHL) was identified by the OIE important by many jurisdictions, the accreditation of AAHL, but due to AAHL laboratory dedicated to the as the international (and thus national) quality potentially enabling managers and suspending their chytrid diagnostic and research work diagnosis of accredited laboratory dedicated to the diagnosis researchers to address many actions because of severe funding constraints, the achievement chytridiomycosis to of chytridiomycosis. However, due to severe in the TAP. However, AAHL has of this action now appears to be in limbo. This action facilitate the rapid financial constraints the AAHL has been unable suspended their chytrid diagnostic is critically important for the national management of detection of B. to continue with their chytrid research or and research work because sustained chytrid into the future, and is a matter that needs to be dendrobatidis using PCR diagnostic work. To date, no laboratory has funding for ongoing operational costs assessed urgently. (Category 4). been nationally accredited to replace AAHL, is required - as there are no funds to although the ABC at JCU also provides a replace the necessary supplies of quality assured diagnostic service for Bd reagents and standard solutions. The researchers working with JCU in Tas., Vic., limited supplies remaining at AAHL NSW, Qld and WA. They have also assisted cannot meet the high demand several other laboratories such as the DPIPWE nationally and internationally. pathology laboratory in Launceston develop capacity. The Ecogene laboratory in NZ also do PCR analysis. 370

371 4.3.1.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 372 Some important progress has been made in the development of diagnostic tools for amphibian chytrid fungus, but limited funding and resources are 373 restricting the achievement of many of the actions in this group and under the research and monitoring objective. For example, the Australian 374 Animal Health Laboratory (AAHL) was identified by the OIE as the international (and thus national) quality accredited laboratory dedicated to the 375 diagnosis of chytridiomycosis. But due to severe financial constraints the AAHL has been unable to continue with their chytrid research or 376 diagnostic work. They have no capacity To date, no laboratory has been nationally accredited to replace AAHL. It is critically important for the 377 national management of chytrid into the future that funding be provided for chytrid diagnostic work at AAHL or an alternative laboratory(ies) be 378 accredited and funded to continue this work. 379

44 of 91 Item 12.1.3

380 4.3.2 Action group 3.2 – Research epidemiology, transmission and dispersal

381 4.3.2.1 Specified actions 382 Table 4.8 shows the actions under objective 3 - action group 3.2, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 383 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 384 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 385 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 386 387 Table 4.8 Summary of the progress on actions regarding the research of epidemiology, transmission and dispersal. Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action 3.2.1: Undertake research Generally jurisdictions have not undertaken this Overall this action can be seen to be It appears that the biology aspects have been addressed, to answer questions about research independently on a large scale. Overall, effective in answering many but that more work is needed regarding the B. dendrobatidis in the this action has been addressed by two reports biological questions about chytrid. transmission and possible vectors. environment with priority undertaking research to answer Bd in the However, some questions still remain The impacts of chytrid in South West WA are reported on the questions below environment (funded by the Australian unanswered, and/or need technical to vary markedly to those experienced in the eastern (Category 1): government). These are “Experimental research break throughs. In addition, many of states – only one species (white-bellied frog, or creek • Does B. dendrobatidis to obtain a better understanding of the the questions addressed in this action frog) is being seriously affected by the disease, while exist as a free-living epidemiology, transmission and dispersal of are about conventional chytrid. It has other species are showing few effects. The disease organism in suitable amphibian chytrid fungus in Australian been suggested that in WA, chytrid is pattern in WA doesn’t fit the seasonal occurrence habitats, particularly ecosystems” (Skerratt et al. 2010b) and widespread in very atypical habitats pattern seen in the eastern states either - chytrid fungus natural water bodies and “Experimental research to obtain a better and well outside the expected is occurring all year and at high temperatures. This moist substrate? understanding of the pathogenesis of physiological tolerances. apparent anomaly needs exploration. • Can detection of B. chytridiomycosis, and the susceptibility and dendrobatidis be used as a resistance of key amphibian species to technique to map chytridiomycosis in Australia” (Alford et al. contaminated and 2010) chytridiomycosis-free areas? • How do environmental characteristics of natural water bodies (pH, pO2, ion content, nitrate, organic content) and weather (temperature, rainfall)

45 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action affect the biology and survival of B. dendrobatidis? • What density of zoospores in natural water bodies can infect susceptible species of amphibians? Does the density of zoospores in natural water bodies correlate with intensity of infection of amphibian populations living in those water bodies, and with the level of clinical chytridiomycosis? Can the density of zoospores in natural water bodies be used to predict periods of high risk for amphibian populations? • How does B. dendrobatidis spread between water bodies? • Are there non-amphibian vectors of B. dendrobatidis? • Can B. dendrobatidis be eradicated from ponds or small standing water bodies?

3.2.2: Develop and Few jurisdictions have clear and effective Information provided on this action It would be worthwhile for strategies to reduce implement effective strategies in place to deal with accidental was limited, but showed both accidental translocation to be implemented by states

46 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action strategies to reduce the importation. Tas. swab all accidentally imported proactive and reactive strategies in and territories. The limited value attributed to this accidental translocation of amphibians for chytrid and then euthanase them, place in some areas. This action was action may be due to inefficient or non-existent amphibians with as well as educating produce and nursery thought effective by one jurisdiction, monitoring and reporting systems focusing on agricultural produce and importers through visiting them at their which worked closely with industry accidental translocation. Currently no widespread nursery materials. Surveys establishments. Victorian Department of on this action. Another jurisdiction systematic approaches appear to be in place, thus there should be performed, Primary Industries responds on an ad hoc basis did not comment on the is no way of really knowing what has slipped through, particularly in when translocated amphibians are reported, effectiveness, but implied it was how effective these strategies are, and thus how chytridiomycosis free through immediate containment and eradication. important, as they stated mitigation effective this action has been. areas, to identify the The ABC has provided some research and of the risk at the source is This action has been partially met with some states and number and origin of advice to the banana industry to help mitigate fundamental to reducing accidental territories having effective strategies in place but others translocated amphibians the risk of translocation of amphibians, as well translocation. In relation to this still require development. detected at markets, as the Amphibian Research Centre to implement action, it has been suggested that the Further comments regarding the accidental wholesalers and nurseries this action more broadly. Strategies have not limited value of the action would not translocation of amphibians can be found in Table 4.2 and the prevalence of been developed in NSW or ACT, with ACT justify the resources required to under actions 1.2.3 and 1.2.4 and in Table 4.3 under chytridiomycosis in these commenting that accidental translocation is not effectively implement this action. action 1.3.3. amphibians (Category 3). an issue for their territory (the reason behind this statement is unclear). Where chytrid free areas occur, the introduction of new strains of chytrid is of concern. Action 3.2.3: Evaluate, Limited work has been done by individual Limited response regarding this There are questions about the need for a focus on the through field surveys and jurisdictions. In Tas, the likelihood of actions effectiveness was received. cane toad as a potential transmitter of Bd. ex situ experimentation, introducing Bd with cane toads has not been The one jurisdiction that commented This action has not been undertaken. the likelihood of cane assessed, but the introduction of cane toads on effectiveness thought unlikely to toads introducing themselves is considered catastrophic. be effective, while another reiterated chytridiomycosis into Vic. reports that that cane toads are detected that vigilance on quarantine, chytridiomycosis-free periodically (e.g. one cane toad was picked up particularly in detecting the areas, particularly in areas by quarantine in a shipping container in 2011) introduction of cane toad is still very of Northern Territory, and could easily provide a source of chytrid important. Western Australia and infection; however Vic. is currently not Tasmania (Category 3). considered climatically suitable for the establishment of cane toads. Cane toads arrive occasionally in SA and are destroyed immediately. It is considered unlikely that cane toads would introduce chytrid fungus into these areas (NT, WA and Tas.) given the resistance of cane toads

47 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action to infection with Bd and also the low risk of establishment of chytridiomycosis in these areas. While attempts were made to survey cane toads in chytrid infected areas, insufficient numbers were found to make testing feasible.

388 4.3.2.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 389 It would be a fair evaluation to note that there has been important research undertaken to better understand the disease and the management of the 390 disease but there is still much to be done. The majority of this work has been supported by funding from independent sources and its completion and 391 implementation requires further commitment of funds. 392 393 Overall this action group has been effective in answering many biological questions about chytrid. However, questions still remain unanswered 394 regarding the transmission, reservoirs and possible vectors of the disease, and these require further research to be answered. In addition, the atypical 395 disease pattern being observed in frog species in WA requires further investigation. 396 Regarding accidental translocation, currently no widespread systematic approaches appear to be in place, thus there is no way of really knowing 397 what or how many individual translocations have occurred, how effective the jurisdictional strategies are, and thus how effective this action has 398 been. 399

400 4.3.3 Action group 3.3 – Research pathogenesis

401 4.3.3.1 Specified actions 402 Table 4.9 shows the actions under objective 3 - action group 3.3, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 403 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 404 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 405 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 406 407 408 409 Table 4.9 Summary of the progress on actions regarding the research of pathogenesis.

48 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Action 3.3.1: Determine Overall this action has been addressed by some The TAP has been particularly effective This action has been critical for developing the pathogenesis of key work carried out since the implementation in developing new knowledge in this effective management actions for species in an chytridiomycosis including of the 2006 TAP. These issues are addressed in action. In great part this is because there ongoing state of decline due to chytrid infection. the host and environmental Alford et al. (2010) and Skerratt et al. (2010a), were many observations of amphibian However, approaches to using the new knowledge factors that determine the funded by the Australian Government. In species surviving with chytrid infections, in adaptive management remain a large challenge. ultimate outcome of addition, research undertaken at Taronga Zoo, which was an unforseen outcome when Continued research would undoubtedly provide infection, i.e. death, in collaboration with JCU and NSW the TAP was written. This outcome has more insight into the pathogenesis including the persistent infection with no government is seeking to understand why some raised the large question as to whether mechanisms that underlie amphibian species obvious effect, and cure species/ populations appear resilient/ immune to some species were immune or immunity resistance/ immunity to chytrid and factors (Category 1). this pathogen. was selected for and the nature of that affecting the virulence of chytrid under various ACT reported that they not have undertaken any immunity, whether some habitats environmental conditions. work towards this action. protected the species that occurred in This action has been partially met with more them because the habitat was alien to research needed. chytrid (habitat facilitation – e.g. warm environments), or whether the disease organism had become less virulent. While the two key reports are a starting point for understanding these issues around chytridiomycosis, it has been suggested that research targeting these issues is in its early days, and there is currently still a knowledge gap, and ongoing research may assist development of efficient management strategies. Action 3.3.2: Investigate Significant work has been undertaken by many This action has received considerable While this action is addressed in Alford et al. surviving robust jurisdictions on this action, highlighting the attention because of the desire to (2010) and Skerratt et al. (2010a) and associated populations of species that importance of this action. understand why some species that have publications such as Puschendorf et al. (2011), have undergone Qld cited Alford et al. (2010), Skerratt et al. experienced widespread declines have other work is currently being undertaken, and is widespread decline and (2010a), Puschendorf et al. (2011), NSW cited recovered or persist with some robust likely to provide critical information for the determine whether Stockwell (2011, PhD) and collaborative work populations. The effectiveness of this management of species that continue to decline due management interventions underway at Taronga Zoo. Tas. reported on action ranges from partially to very to chytrid. Without such information, management can reproduce the factors current research determining the occupancy effective. interventions to maintain these populations cannot that maintain these status for theTasmanian tree frog and Work on this action has the potential to be determined. This action is important and while it populations (Category 1). Tasmanian froglets, western Tasmania, within protect remnant populations of species, may seem ineffective at this point, this may be an and around the TWWHA. ACT stated that work and thus has been very effective. artefact of the TAP timeframe, and over a longer

49 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action had not been undertaken by the ACT However, another view is that it has only period may prove effective. Government but was considered important, and been partially effective, as the reasons a PhD study has begun at ANU investigating why some populations of susceptible aspects of this action in alpine tree frogs. This species survive while many other action has not been carried out in Vic. in detail populations disappear are far from clear. due to a lack of funding; however some It has been put forward that it is too early populations of threatened frogs that have to determine whether current research persisted are being monitored. will leave important knowledge gaps. Action 3.3.3: Determine This has not been done in Vic. due to a lack of As some work has been carried out in the This action is limited because of the few threatened the susceptibility and funding and was deemed not applicable in NSW laboratory, indicating this action has amphibians that have not been exposed to the Bd. resistance of key and ACT, as no large chytrid free areas exist in been partially met, the measure of Tas. is the exception to this and has undertaken amphibian species to NSW and no chytrid free areas exist in ACT. effectiveness may in fact be relating work for their key species. chytridiomycosis using a Tas., with the assistance of JCU, established the laboratory results to susceptibility in situ, This action has been partially met. standard laboratory model susceptibility of key amphibian species in which has not been achieved yet. that relates to risk in the laboratory infection trials. Murray and Skerratt This action was considered effective for wild, particularly for (2012) developed a model to predict whether prioritisation of species and populations species that are currently host and environmental characteristics could for management for one jurisdiction, but chytridiomycosis-free inform which species were most likely to be from another, the question about whether (Category 1). infected with Bd. it was a real priority was raised, due to The question as to whether this action has been there being no indication of decline in conducted for key species that are of some species of conservation conservation significance was raised, and given significance. the work conducted in Tas. (Voyles et al. unpublished), better communication about research work from leading agencies may be warranted. Action 3.3.4: Perform The ABC is currently conducting research This action has been partially effective, Research that has been undertaken to date has research for evidence of aiming to identify immune mechanisms via as it has increased the knowledge about improved knowledge on the resistance to Bd. resistance (and techniques molecular studies to aid selection in captive the extent to which previously However, due to the longer term nature of this to increase resistance) in breeding and reintroduction programs. susceptible frog species have evolved a research, more needs to be done. at-risk species, including Preliminary results indicate that resistance robust immune response to chytrid. This action has been partially met. captive breeding and varies within and among surviving populations However, current knowledge remains selection for restocking of the alpine tree frog. This has been in insufficient to develop strategic (Category 1). collaboration with major reintroduction management strategies, important in programs conducted by NSWOEH (New South successful reintroductions and to provide Wales Office of Environment and Heritage), long term threat abatement.

50 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Taronga Conservation Society and the It still remains a high priority, as Amphibian Research Centre. Results to date research is required to determine the will be provided to the department as a final genetics/ mechanism underpinning report in 2012 for a grant from the Australian resistance to chytrid, and whether species Biosecurity CRC. that continue to be susceptible have the potential to evolve this resistance via selective breeding. Action 3.3.5: Assess the Work has been conducted investigating the The perception of how effective this There appears to be varying opinions, even within effect of management importance of protecting natural environmental action has been is divided, and limited jurisdictions, on the effectiveness of the TAP in activities, designed to refugia from chytridiomycosis (Puschendorf et feedback was provided for the TAP achieving this action. However, all jurisdictions improve environmental al. 2011), considering strategies that may help review. The priority of this action was stated that this action is critical and a high priority. suitability or general amphibians fight chytridiomycosis during high across the board, but effectiveness Work regarding this issue has been the focus of amphibian well-being, on periods of rapid climate change (Shoo et al. ranged from undemonstrated to very some research recently, and it may be that an the morbidity and 2011), as well as the effects of salinity on effective, even within the same ecological response through management activities mortality due to chytridiomycosis (Stockwell 2011). jurisdiction. may be the best option for mitigating the pathogen chytridiomycosis in NSW is currently investigating the effectiveness Where refugia are preserved to protect on a large scale. More work is needed, and a current chronically infected of releasing southern corroboree frogs into chytrid free areas and therefore remnant NERP grant (2011-2014) has been approved to amphibian populations artificial pools to ensure they reach populations of species, the TAP was seen explore chytrid distribution in ecotonal areas on the (Category 2). metamorphosis without becoming infected with to be effective. However, a contrasting western side of the Great Dividing Range. chytrid, as a possible reintroduction strategy. view on the effectiveness of this action This action may have been met in part but further ANU has a PhD student (Ben Scheele) who is acknowledges the critical importance of time is required to be able to assess. It is agreed looking at the effectiveness of controlling this action to mitigate this pathogen, but that this action is incomplete with further work reservoir species and identifying environmental stated that the effect of management underway. factors that may mitigate the impact of activities has not been demonstrated yet. chytridiomycosis.

410 4.3.3.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 411 The goals of this action group have been partially achieved and further research is underway, but further funding and time is required to be able to 412 complete the work. 413 414 Work on this action group has the potential to protect important remnant populations of threatened amphibian species, and other work is currently 415 being undertaken to provide critical information for the management of species that continue to decline due to chytrid fungus. Without such 416 information, management interventions to maintain these populations cannot be determined. 417

51 of 91 Item 12.1.3

418 There are still some critical gaps in knowledge about amphibian chytrid fungus including some of the characteristics of the disease and how it infects 419 frogs, the apparent immunity that some species demonstrate, the transmission host factors, how population dynamics are affected, and other species 420 as reservoirs to infect the threatened species that are the subject of this TAP. Attachment C outlines the critical gaps in knowledge about amphibian 421 chytrid fungus as identified by the key stakeholder group in 2012.

422 4.3.4 Action group 3.4 – Assess effectiveness of management strategies

423 4.3.4.1 Specified actions 424 Table 4.10 shows the actions under objective 3 - action group 3.4, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 425 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 426 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 427 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 428 429 430 Table 4.10 Summary of actions to assess the effectiveness of management strategies Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Action 3.4.1: Evaluate the Limited responses were submitted by Given that limited work has been performed It is unclear whether the lack of response effectiveness of various hygiene jurisdictions, which may or may not be evaluating hygiene protocols, this action from stakeholders is indicative of the protocol options, using sensitive indicative of the work carried out towards appears to have been ineffective. However, priority or effectiveness of this action. tools able to detect viable B. this action. ACT reported no action has been the importance placed on evaluating the While no formal evaluation of hygiene dendrobatidis in environmental taken and Tas. is currently monitoring the effectiveness of hygiene protocols was high, protocols has been reported on, the samples, to inform hygiene entry points into the Tasmanian Wilderness despite not being carried out to date, or only in ‘Keeping it Clean: A Tasmanian field protocols in the field that allow World Heritage Area to assess the a limited capacity. The reasons why limited hygiene manual to prevent the spread of research and other activities at an effectiveness of the biosecurity/ hygiene work was carried out despite agreement of its freshwater pests and pathogens’. acceptable level of feasibility actions. high priority status was not reported. was published in 2010, and is a good (Category 1). starting point with regards to hygiene protocols in the field. Work still needs to be carried out to evaluate whether these protocols are effective and can be transferred broadly across many freshwater environments in Australia, specifically in relation to chytrid. This action has not been completed.

52 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Action 3.4.2: Perform studies to Studies addressing this action are limited, as This action seems to only have been partly Monitoring of recovered/ persistent determine whether populations that few populations in Vic. could be described carried out, but it is very important for populations is likely to be occurring in have recovered after chytrid- as ‘recovered’, but rather ‘persistent’ after a positive outcomes from re-introduction work most states and territories in a variety of associated decline are susceptible decline caused by chytrid. NSW reported a and recovery from chytrid declines. Further forms, even though many jurisdictions to future severe effects from subsequent decline in a re-established work is required in determining the have not reported here. It appears that chytridiomycosis (Category 1). population of the spotted tree frog in mechanism of resistance in the species where more work is required to understand the Kosciuszko National Park (no reference recovery has been identified after an initial mechanism underlying individual provided), which occurred in similar way to impact on the population from chytrid. resistance to chytrid, the effect across the initial decline from chytrid. In addition, expectations need to be clarified species and its role in allowing populations In the absence of formal studies, variable based on what is actually feasible, in terms of to persist and even recover from the forms of monitoring have been cited generations/time taken to attain greater impact of chytrid. For this to occur, addressing this action. Vic. reported that resistance through selection, and whether ongoing and widespread funding is some populations are subject to intensive selection for individual resistance has actually necessary. demographic monitoring e.g. some occurred, and will thus afford population level This action is incomplete with further populations of spotted tree frogs, while other resistance. work underway. species, such as the Alpine tree frog, are subject to ‘surveillance’ monitoring for the continued presence of frogs, while sampling for chytrid. Tas. reports that current research aims to determine whether chytrid- associated declines are occurring. The Alford group from JCU, Qld has identified this action as major gap, and has submitted a research proposal to investigate this action (currently under consideration for an Australian Research Council discovery grant).

Action 3.4.3: Assess the value of Captive breeding and reintroduction This action has not been achieved in that, Work necessary to achieve this action is reintroduction programs for programs are said to be essential to the while frog species have been reintroduced, not still in the early phase, not really allowing threatened species over significant recovery of populations effected by chytrid. enough time has passed to be able to the effectiveness of this action to be periods of time, in terms of Reintroduction programs are currently being determine the success of these programs. In assessed at this time. Whether the future increased abundance and expansion carried out for spotted tree frog, southern addition, where the introduction of individuals timeframe for the TAP will allow

53 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action of range of amphibians, mortality corroboree frog, and northern corroboree in have been subject to extreme climatic ‘significant time’ in order to be able to and prevalence of chytridiomycosis NSW, and Booroolong frogs in Vic. Work conditions, more time may be needed to block assess the effectiveness and value of (Category 2). on this action has not been undertaken in out the background ‘environmental noise’ in captive breeding and reintroduction Tas. and Qld deferred comments on this order to accurately assess the initial stages of programs remains to be seen, especially in action to the work carried out in NSW. In reintroduction. light of the potential masking effect other ACT, the reintroduction program for At this stage, there is still a gap in how factors, such as environmental extremes, corroboree frogs has not had sufficient time reintroduction programs may facilitate may have on these programs. to investigate these questions – first selection for resistance, or whether this is a The modelling work in the ACT may act reintroduction was in 2011 – but the feasible expectation. as a strategic indicator for more effective program aims to eventually help answer reintroduction programs, but at this stage these questions. However, the ACT has not been implemented alongside government has funded ecological modelling physical reintroduction programs to work to help determine feasibility of planned validate it. restocking of wild populations under range Good work is being undertaken towards of chytrid mortality and demographic this action but it is too soon to make an scenarios (McCarthy 2008). assessment on the outcome. Action 3.4.4: Develop effective and Vic. and ACT have not undertaken work. This action has been partially effective, in that This action has not been achieved and safe treatment protocols that are There is work currently underway in Qld at research has been carried out. However, therefore not fully effective during the suitable for all Australian species Currumbin Sanctuary and in Tas., but results results have not been developed into a set of lifespan of the current TAP, but it was of amphibians (Category 2). are not yet available. Research in this area is protocols that can be used nationally for all identified as important and it is generally urgently needed (Berger et al. 2010). amphibian species. A review of the various agreed that more research is needed. Various studies since the implementation of ‘failed methods’ has been conducted the last TAP have looked at the effectiveness (Woodhams et al. 2012), providing valuable and safety of different treatments which direction for future research into safe and include, but are not limited to, Chatfield et effective treatment protocols that are suitable al. 2011, Garner et al. 2009, Berger et al. for all Australian amphibian species. The 2009 [a or b TBC], Young et al. in press, variety of methods investigated can still be Young et al. unpublished, Stice & Briggs seen to be useful in captive breeding and 2010, Harris et al. 2009. emergency responses. Action 3.4.5: Use specimens from The historical surveys conducted by JCU This action is considered useful and only While a broad survey of archived archived frogs to perform historical and published in Murray et al. (2010b) somewhat effective. JCU state that it is useful specimens may contribute to a better surveys where knowledge of the present the status of present day distribution in determining the risk pathways for spread, understanding of the pathways that relationship of the arrival of the of Bd. Testing of archived specimens has but that more needs to be known about facilitated the spread of chytrid, the amphibian chytrid fungus to been informative about the decline of molecular epidemiology to progress this. complete picture may be dependent on declines in the species would assist corroboree frogs, providing evidence to Alford supports the current distribution of Bd whether or not enough specimens were in risk assessment and preparation refute or support the many and varied provided by Murray et al. (2010b), but collected from the point of entry at the

54 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action of frog recovery plans (Category hypotheses about their decline, indicating suggests that the ‘story’ of its spread is not time they arrived, not just that all archived 3). chytrid as the major cause of decline for two supported by published historical data and that specimens are tested. species (Hunter et al. 2010). In Tas., a broad scale historical survey should be This action has been met. archived specimens have been tested, but the undertaken. This is possible now that timeframe for when Bd was introduced reasonably reliable techniques to detect Bd in remains unknown as all specimens were DNA of preserved specimens have been negative. Work in Vic. and WA has been developed, which would potentially determine done, although references of relevant how the pathogen entered the continent and publications or data were not provided, and how fast it spread. Such a broad scale survey ACT has not done any work on this action. would require funding, and given that Bd is widespread in Australia, risk assessment may only be required for some specific habitats and locations (e.g. southwest Tas.).

431 4.3.4.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 432 Parts of this action group were achieved, for example historical survey results were published in 2010 by James Cook University and work 433 undertaken in NSW and ACT indicates that chytrid was the major cause of the drastic decline of the corroboree frog species. Good work has also 434 been undertaken on improving re-introduction methodologies to establish sustainable wild populations of threatened amphibian species but it is too 435 soon to make an assessment on the outcome. 436 437 Other actions in this group were only partially achieved as only limited work has been performed, such as the evaluation of hygiene protocols and 438 the development of treatment protocols. Much more work is also required to understand the mechanism underlying individual resistance to chytrid, 439 the effect across species and its role in allowing populations in the wild to persist and even recover from the impact of chytrid. For this to occur, 440 ongoing funding is needed. 441 442 4.3.5 Conclusion of assessment of contribution to change of threat from Objective 3 443 444 Some important progress has been made in achieving the goals of Objective 3: Research and monitoring through the development of diagnostic tools 445 and management techniques for species that continue to decline due to chytrid fungus, but limited funding and resources are restricting the 446 achievement of many of the actions under this objective. For example, it is critically important for the national management of chytrid into the 447 future that Australia have well resourced national quality accredited diagnostic laboratory facility(ies) such as AAHL.

55 of 91 Item 12.1.3

448 449 Therefore, it is concluded that overall there has been limited contribution to the change of threat through the actions under this objective.

450 4.4 Objective 4: Stakeholder communication on TAP objectives 451 To share information with Australian, state and territory government management agencies, researchers and other academics, landholders, 452 relevant industries and the public about the Threat Abatement Plan’s actions and their outcomes. 453 Performance indicator: Stakeholders apply best management practice to implement the plan, based upon access to, and awareness of, existing and 454 new information and data.

455 4.4.1 Action group 4.1 – Establish communication pathways and share information

456 4.4.1.1 Specified actions 457 Table 4.11 shows the actions under objective 4 - action group 4.1, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 458 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 459 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 460 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 461 462 Table 4.11 Summary of the actions to establish communication pathways and share information. Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Action 4.1.1: Inform A range of responses were submitted for The TAP action was thought to be While this action has been partially achieved, it is a the community about action. NSW reported that a targeted effective, although only a small somewhat ad hoc approach, and it is unclear as to basic disease program to achieve this end had not been number of stakeholders provided whether requests for information were initiated by management for developed, while in Tas. community feedback. Further comment communities or research, government or media chytridiomycosis and education has been delivered under the included that informing organisations, or a combination of both. the risks of transporting Caring for our Country TWWHA communities needed to be Also, not feeding key research results back to the wider potentially infected Biosecurity Program. A number of avenues comprehensive and systematic community is an ineffective use of the limited funds amphibians, water and for information dissemination to the rather than ad hoc, which appeared available. The public and interested communities have other transmitting community have also been pursued, such as to be the current approach. an important role to play in implementing on the agents, as they are through media including press, radio and It was suggested that for this action ground actions to minimise the spread of chytrid, due identified (Category 2). websites. ACT government reported on to be effective, state-wide personnel to their numbers and large scale access to areas providing information sheets on disease needed to be appointed to take infected with chytrid. management. Various presentations have responsibility for advocacy and Refer to potential communication strategy described in been given to community groups, such as awareness. Where no personnel are Action 4.1.7 56 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action the Queensland Frog Society and appointed and a systematic This action has only been partially met. Queensland Naturalists Club. approach not implemented, it may seem like information dissemination to communities is not a priority. In addition, the level of uptake and the effect of information are not known, nor are their measures in place to evaluate this. Action 4.1.2: This action has been undertaken by There is general support from The initial work of developing the communication Educate the government jurisdictions in a number of researchers and those members of materials regarding hygiene protocols to reduce the community to ways, through understanding the key user the public who are aware of the spread of chytridiomycosis has been undertaken. ensure support groups and the avenues in which the extra guidelines, in adhering to actions as There has been some limited distribution of these for, and legislation and regulations can be provided. set out by government agencies. materials through some key stakeholder groups. compliance The NSW government has untaken this This action is thought to have been However, the broader target groups such as campers, with, existing action via a statement of intent ‘Infection of effective at reducing both the schools etc who are high risk groups are unlikely to legislation and frogs by amphibian chytrid causing the spread of chytrid both within and have received sufficient information. regulations, disease chytridiomycosis’, as well as the among amphibian populations, but Therefore, this action is only partially met. targeting groups NSW hygiene protocol for the control of still remains an ongoing high at higher risk of disease in frogs. Guidelines to reduce the priority. It has been recommended spreading the spread of disease are provided to researchers by scientists that no amphibians be fungus e.g. pet through the permits system in Vic. and ACT. released in Vic. by wildlife carers. trade, Representatives of the Department of researchers, Sustainability and Environment (DSE) in schools, wildlife Vic. have been provided with limited advice carers, as well regarding the disease and fungus so that they as campers, may in turn inform wildlife carers about the bushwalkers, the disease. The public in the ACT are provided tourist industry, information via the community program and other ‘Frogwatch’, while in Tas. information is recreational provided through the Caring for our Country users in contact TWWHA Biosecurity Program. with fresh water (Category 2). Action 4.1.3: Various presentations have been given to This action has been thought to be While this action is no doubt important, a co-ordinated Use proactive and by key groups within the community, effective in promoting broader national approach to strategies and information strategies to e.g. specialists speaking to community community awareness surrounding disseminated may provide a more solid foundation 57 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action inform and groups, zoo staff and government staff the impacts of chytrid. However, from which key community groups conduct their motivate key informing a variety of groups on various frog naturalist groups already have business. The Department has made information such groups within aspects of chytrid. It is not known what a high awareness of chytrid. as reports and guidelines on chytrid publically the community, constitutes regular, and who generally The effect/outcomes of the uptake available on the website environment.gov.au. in particular initiated the idea of the communication, i.e. of info has not been measured, and This action has been undertaken by individuals or members of frog specialist side or governing body or public. thus the effect of the proactive groups as they have seen appropriate. naturalists This is important as this action does not strategies implemented are The action is, necessarily, ongoing. groups, wildlife specify ‘who’ should inform the key user subjective, as in some states this carers and groups, and while it is mainly top down has not been done and many veterinarians approach, it may be that some groups may jurisdictions provided no comment. (Category 2). present as well as receive information from other user groups. Action 4.1.5: JCU information has been disseminated This action has been somewhat Given that no organisation has been established as The through an international conference, ACT effective, as information has been specified in Action 4.1.4, this action, while important, organisation through media releases, from government collated, analysed, interpreted and has not been achieved in any coordinated way. identified in departments to government researchers and disseminated to a wide variety of While information has been disseminated for specific Action 4.1.4 to vets. In Tas. specific people are responsible groups. However, the approach is purposes, it appears that content may vary between collate, analyse, for the dissemination of information e.g. thought to be ad hoc and a more audiences. In addition, the motivation underlying the interpret and Wildlife Health Officer DPIPWE. In Vic. comprehensive and systematic type of information released for dissemination may be disseminate data there is not funding for this and in NSW it is approach is required. influenced by the person/group providing the on not the specific focus of the program. information. chytridiomycosi s occurrence and prevalence to wildlife managers, researchers and the public (Category 2). Action 4.1.6: Limited action from jurisdictions has been Two stakeholders suggest this It appears that this action has been ineffective, since Encourage carried out in relation to this action. There action has been effective, but do not the specified website in the action has not been updated coordination of have been reports of no progress or no specify reasons. since 2008. In addition, an alternative has not been research on funding to carry it out, through to it being proposed, and a central repository of research priorities infection with the responsibility of a specific officer, and contacts is currently not available nationally in one the amphibian through to a large scale conference. While place. chytrid, the Amphibian Diseases Home Page has Co-ordination of a data repository, such as the website, 58 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action chytridiomycosi been proposed as the central point to co- is needed. In addition, maintenance of data costs s and its control. ordinate research projects and contacts for money, so the costs of achieving this action need to be Make available researchers, this website has not been addressed. an online updated at all since 2008. Refer to potential communication strategy described in database, at the Action 4.1.7 Amphibian This action has not been effective. Diseases Home Page (www.jcu.edu.a u/school/phtm/P HTM/frogs/amp dis), of past and current research projects and contacts for researchers (Category 2). Action 4.1.7: Very limited feedback was provided on the No comments were provided by The Amphibian Diseases Home Page website is hosted Publish the list progress of this action, with ACT saying no any jurisdictions on the by JCU. This action was initiated after the approval of of research work was done and Vic. saying there was no effectiveness of this action. the 2006 TAP. However, the website has not been priorities listed funding available to do the work. The updated since 2008, so has only been implemented to a under Objective Amphibian Diseases Home Page has not limited extent. As this action has not been completed, it 3 online at the been updated since 2 January 2008, with has not been effective. Amphibian other key sections within this website not While the TAP has not been effective in achieving this Diseases Home being updated since before the adoption of action, this outcome does not necessarily reflect the Page (Category the 2006 TAP. importance of this action. Methods to achieve this 4). action should be investigated and costed, as it has potential flow on effects in co-ordinating other activities such as disseminating information and informing a variety of groups. The stakeholders considered this issue at the workshop in May 2012 and developed a potential strategy to progress this objective and facilitate improved communication. The Australian Registry of Wildlife Health has an existing public website which could be utilised to provide publicly available information. The

59 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action current content of the Amphibian Disease Home Page would be moved across to this site and updated as required. The Australian Biosecurity Intelligence Network offered to host a secure community space on their website for stakeholders and researchers to utilise to share information and establish communication pathways. The Australian Wildlife Health Network provides a way of reporting diseases listed as key threatening processes and at the workshop in May 2012 they offered a strategy to circulate relevant information to stakeholders via a “chytrid digest”. This strategy is an excellent step forward with this objective but will rely on all contributors to the network posting information as it is produced. Action 4.1.8: This has currently been done in many This action has been somewhat It is clear that strong collaborative networks exist Encourage jurisdictions, between a variety of effective, and is important in within local areas and/or institutions. But the notion of collaborative organisations and jurisdictions, which occur maximising the use of existing collaborative research may need to be embraced by the research on in many combinations. However, there is knowledge. However, it can only be wider research community in order for this action to chytridiomycosi more potential to strengthen relationships effective to the extent to which become more effective. s and its impact between experts, disciplines and institutions. collaborative networks are This action has been met but requires ongoing on amphibian developed and utilised, which need attention. populations to be adopted on a wider basis. across disciplines and institutions, including joint supervision of research students across disciplines and institutions (Category 4). Action 4.1.9: Very little comment was provided on this No comment was provided on the This action potentially benefits community groups, Establish a action, implying it was not carried out. No effectiveness of this action, except industry, researchers, local, and state and territory national feedback was given on whether or not this NSW who said it was not governments as well, but would require a central co- database of was considered important and what the completed. coordinator, as it would only be as valuable as the most 60 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action names, value of such a database would be. current data contained within the database. locations, Alternative methods for contacting specialists may activities and already exist and these should be investigated further contact details before completing this action. of organisations Refer to potential communication strategy described in and individuals Action 4.1.7 breeding and carrying out captive husbandry of native Australian frogs and made publicly available on the internet (Category 4).

Action 4.1.10: The co-ordination of information appears to Limited comment was provided on As the implementation of signage in key areas has not Place signage at be lacking somewhat within jurisdictions. In the effectiveness of this action, with been adopted across the nation and with a high sense of entrances to NSW, there was some inconsistency in the only two areas in NSW mentioned priority by all jurisdictions, this action has been national parks, reporting of this action. It was reported as where this action has been ineffective. The potential for important information to forestry not undertaken as well as being addressed in addressed. be presented to large user groups within areas where reserves, and a limited way e.g. Nightcap Range for chytrid is an issue has not be utilized to its full extent. other areas Fleay’s frog and Sydney Olympic Parklands containing water for the green and golden bell frog. In ACT, bodies it was not undertaken as all areas have controlled by chytrid. state and In Qld, there is no signage on protected territory estate areas, but some interpretative signage departments that has been placed at national parks discussing have had cases frog declines and the role of Bd. Similarly in of Tas., signage at associated boot, vehicle and chytridiomycosi helicopter wash down areas at the entry s, to inform the points of TWWHA is being installed by

61 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action public that the NRM South under Caring for our Country water catchment TWWHA Biosecurity Program. is chytrid positive and giving details on simple strategies to be followed to reduce the likelihood of the amphibian chytrid being taken from the site (Category 4).

463 4.4.1.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat

464 The key stakeholder group, which met in May 2012, indicated there is a sufficient level of cooperation but insufficient communication between the 465 range of interested groups. The stakeholders commented that reporting and information sharing is not undertaken in any formal or structured 466 way and due to lack of resources the information on the website specified in Actions 4.1.6 and 4.1.7 (the Amphibian Disease Home Page) has 467 not been updated since 2008, therefore it does not provide a good picture of the current situation. 468 The stakeholders considered this issue at the workshop in May 2012 and developed a strategy to progress this objective and facilitate improved 469 communication. The Australian Registry of Wildlife Health has an existing public website which could be utilised to provide publicly available 470 information. The current content of the Amphibian Disease Home Page would be moved across to this site and updated as required. The Australian 471 Biosecurity Intelligence Network offered to host a secure community space on their website for stakeholders and researchers to utilise to share 472 information and establish communication pathways. The Australian Wildlife Health Network provides a way of reporting diseases listed as key 473 threatening processes and at the workshop in May 2012 they offered a strategy to circulate relevant information to stakeholders via a “chytrid 474 digest”. This strategy is an excellent step forward with this objective but will rely on all contributors to the network posting information as it is 475 produced. 476

62 of 91 Item 12.1.3

477 There is a reasonable level of awareness of chytridiomycosis in the general community in Australia. Some public information is available through 478 factsheets and internet websites (examples at Attachment A) but should be coordinated, kept up to date and made more easily accessible. It is also 479 clear that some aspects of the disease are still poorly understood by members of the public. Therefore, continuing education is important. 480 481 4.4.5 Conclusion of assessment of contribution to change of threat from Objective 4 482 483 The review concludes that overall there has been limited contribution to the change of threat through the actions under Objective 4: Stakeholder 484 communication on TAP objectives. Important ongoing work implementing the proposed communication strategy is required to enable progress on 485 this objective. 486

487 4.5 Objective 5: Coordination of management activities 488 To coordinate management activities effectively 489 Performance indicator: Stakeholders are engaged in implementation of the plan, with actions reflected in recovery plans, and local and regional 490 management plans.

491 4.5.1 Action group 5.1 – Establish communication pathways and share information

492 4.5.1.1 Specified actions 493 Table 4.12 shows the actions under objective 5 - action group 5.1, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 494 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 495 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 496 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 497 498 499 500 501 502 503 Table 4.12 Summary of coordination actions to establish communication pathways and share information.

63 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Action 5.1.1: Strategies to manage chytridiomycosis in This action is included and consistent Twenty-nine frog species are currently listed as Ensure strategies frog recovery plans are outlined in the with recovery plans in the ACT and threatened under the EPBC Act. Four species are listed to manage Tasmanian Chytrid Management Plan NSW, and Qld suggests it is a key as extinct. Since the adoption of the 2006 TAP, none of chytridiomycosis (Phillips et al. 2010), the focus of action in enabling preceding actions. the threatened frog species have decreased in their are addressed in recovery plans in NSW & SA. Existing It remains a high priority, and threatened status, with four species increasing in their frog recovery frog recovery plans in Qld have not been requires adequate resources in order threatened status, including one species being added to plans and include: revised since 2006, nor have any new to be effective. the threatened list. assessing species plans been developed since then. Chytrid fungus has been identified as a possible threat vulnerability to Recovery Plans in ACT outline strategies for a number of amphibian species listed as threatened chytridiomycosis; to manage chytridiomycosis, despite no under the EPBC Act. However, chytrid is not listed in monitoring and known chytrid free areas. In Vic., key isolation from other threats, such as habitat loss and detection of recovery plans for frogs such as the degradation. The role of chytrid in the decline of chytridiomycosis; growling grass frog and Alpine tree frog amphibian species ranges from known to and identifying have taken a long time to gain state and unknown/unquantified and as it does not affect all frog actions to address federal approval (e.g. 8 years). While it species and populations in the same way, specific the arrival of the has suggested that they may be out of management actions for individual species may only be amphibian chytrid date once approved, periodic updates possible on a longer term basis. in the case of during the approval process have started This action has been partially met. chytridiomycosis- to include strategies to manage free populations chytridiomycosis. or population decline for chytridiomycosis- positive populations (Category 4).

504 4.5.1.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 505 Twenty-nine frog species are currently listed as threatened under the EPBC Act. Four species are listed as extinct. Of the 29 listed threatened 506 species, only 20 of the species have recovery plans. Within these 20 recovery plans, 15 plans mention chytrid fungus as a contributing factor in the 507 decline of frog populations, whilst five recovery plans do not mention chytrid fungus in the plan at all. All of the plans addressed other possible 508 threats which contribute to frog population decline. 509

64 of 91 Item 12.1.3

510 The 15 species that have recovery plans mentioning the potential threat from chytrid fungus are the armoured mistfrog, mountain mistfrog, Kroombit 511 Tinker Frog, waterfall frog, common mistfrog, spotted tree frog, Fleay’s frog, giant barred frog, lace-eyed tree frog, Baw Baw frog, southern 512 corroboree frog, Eungella day frog, Tinkling frog, Wallum Sedge frog and the stuttering frog. Determining the degree of threat from chytrid fungus 513 has been identified as an action item in each of these recovery plans. It is also useful to know for what species chytrid fungus is not having a 514 threatening impact. For example, most recovery plans state that chytrid is a major cause for the decline in species population whilst some recovery 515 plans mentioned that chytrid fungus could be a potential threat but other factors posed a more likely threat, such as feral animals, UV-B radiation, 516 chemical pollutants, or the introduction of exotic fish and mammals. 517 518 While this review has been able to identify where researchers are concerned about the threat of the chytrid fungus to the threatened species through 519 actions identified in recovery plans, the actual action on the ground and abatement of the threat is much more difficult to measure. This may be in 520 part due to a lack of resources to undertake sufficient surveillance of all of the threatened species or a focus of recovery teams on other priorities 521 (e.g. habitat loss). It should be noted that the resources required undertaking comprehensive surveillance would be very expensive. 522 Recovery plans can provide a focus for recovery teams or community groups to seek funding for actions through government funding. Appendix C 523 provides details on funding provided through the Australian Government Caring for our Country program for the management of the 29 threatened 524 frog species identified in the TAP. Only two project summaries identify specific actions targeting the problem of chytrid fungus in the species.

525 4.5.2 Action group 5.2 – Use regional management plans 526 Regional management plans, agreed by governments and the community, set out the means for identifying and achieving a region’s natural resource 527 management targets. They detail catchment-wide activities including land and water management, biodiversity and agricultural practices.

528 4.5.2.1 Specified actions 529 Table 4.13 shows the actions under objective 5 - action group 5.2, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 530 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 531 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 532 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 533 534 Table 4.13 Summary of actions towards the use of regional management plans Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Action 5.2.1: Comments from jurisdictions regarding this Many jurisdictions did not comment on This action has not been met. It should be possible to Include a strategic action were few. In Qld, frogs susceptible the effectiveness of this TAP action. identify the threat of chytrid on threatened amphibian overview of the to chytridiomycosis are listed as low The impact of chytrid is mentioned in populations within relevant regional management plans.

65 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action threat posed by priority due to NRM bodies using the some NSW regional management plans, chytridiomycosis to threatened species prioritisation process but no strategic overview provided in threatened species ‘back on track’ when preparing their NRM regional NRM plans. SA report that this and amphibian plans. As a result, most plans do not include action was effective, as communities that amphibian species threatened by chytridiomycosis identified as a threat have high chytridiomycosis, therefore no strategic in the Recovery Plan for the Golden conservation value overview included in regional NRM plans. Bell Frog, Litoria raniformis in the in regional The definition of ‘regional’ was again South Australian River Murray Corridor management plans raised as unclear as to whether it relates to (Turner et al. 2011). (Category 4). Regional Land Management Plans or Frog Management Plans. Action 5.2.2: Identify Comments from jurisdictions were lacking Only one jurisdiction (NSW) As no local management plans, current and/or proposed, current and proposed local regarding this action. ACT reported that no commented on the effectiveness of this were mentioned, it seems that no regional initiatives are management plans, which progress was made towards this action, but action, stating that the TAP was not being carried out on the ground at a local level, in a address the control and/or that it may not have been appropriate due to effective. strategic and coordinated way, thus rendering this action prevention of spread of B. no known chytrid free areas. It was also ineffective. dendrobatidis for regions, pointed out that the meaning of local and in regional management regional management plans did not clearly plans (Category 4). indicate whether the TAP was referring to NRM plans or frog management plans. No current or proposed local management plans, whether NRM or frog plans, were mentioned by stakeholders within the context of regional management, either to control and/or prevent the spread of chytrid. Action 5.2.3: Identify in Comments from jurisdictions were lacking Only one jurisdiction (NSW) This action has not been undertaken. regional management regarding this action. This action was not commented on the effectiveness of this plans how local seen as a priority in ACT, as no known action, stating that the TAP was not management plans will chytrid free areas occur. The lack of clarity effective. address Objectives 1, 2, 3 on the definition of regional/local and and 4 (Category 4). whether the plans refer to land management or frog management was raised again. Action 5.2.4: Regional Comments from jurisdictions were lacking Only one jurisdiction (NSW) This action has not been implemented, but has the management plans to regarding this action. This action was not commented on the effectiveness of this potential to be effective if raised to a higher priority by include guidance for seen as a priority in ACT, as no known action, stating that the TAP was not regions and integrated into their management plans.

66 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action integration of chytrid free areas occur. The lack of clarity effective. chytridiomycosis planning on the definition of regional/local and into existing regional and whether the plans refer to land management local land and biodiversity or frog management was raised again. management plans Qld reported that for this action to be (Category 4). carried out, chytridiomycosis needs to be seen as a threat to biodiversity. However, when many regional NRM plans in Qld were developed frog species susceptible to chytridiomycosis were listed as a low priority. Subsequently, they do not include actions to abate the threat posed to amphibian species by chytridiomycosis, for regional and local land and into biodiversity management plans. Action 5.2.5: ACT reports that recovery plans and action One stakeholder from NSW commented Recovery plans often cover this issue, as re-introduction Identify in regional plans are consistent with this action. In that this action was not effective, while may be an option in order to increase populations and management plans, Vic., the former range of some species is all other stakeholders representing other species numbers. However, areas outside their former areas that were part well known, such as key threatened Vic. jurisdictions did not comment. range may be more suitable to reintroduction of threatened of the former range frogs including spotted tree frogs, Alpine species, as chytrid may be unable to compete in atypical of threatened tree frogs and Baw Baw Frogs. However, environments. species for potential less is known about other species, such as Given that research and monitoring has shown that chytrid later re-introduction the stuttering frog, (also known as the does not affect all species the same, and can affect the (Category 4). southern barred frog). The implications are same species differently under various climatic and that where distributions of threatened environmental conditions, this action may not be a priority species are less well understood, the or effective in abating the threat of chytridiomycosis. potential for re-introduction in the future as part of a recovery plan may not be realistic, even if such an option is outlined clearly in regional management plans. Action 5.2.6: Support Limited comment was provided by No comment provided by stakeholders, With the limited information provided, we are unable to regional organisations, stakeholders regarding this action. ACT except one stakeholder in NSW, who ascertain how much support has been provided to regional community and industry reported that no progress had been made said this TAP action was not effective. organisations and land management agencies, community groups and land towards this action, while Tas. reported that The definition of ‘regional and industry groups, in order to collaboratively develop management agencies in the Chytrid Management Plan and other management’ needs clarification as to and implement regional management plans. collaboratively developing support was freely given to community whether it means land management or

67 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action and implementing regional groups, industry groups and land frog management, and such a management plans management agencies. From the feedback, difference in scale may affect the (Category 4). we are unable to tell whether support is perception of whether this action was given when asked, or a proactive approach effective or not. to dissemination of information used for priority groups.

Action 5.2.7: Where In Tas., partnerships with land management The action was reported as not effective This action was not implemented or achieved. possible, management on agencies and private landholders have been by one stakeholder, with no comment public and private lands is developed through collaborator NRM South on its effectiveness provided by the integrated with other under Caring for our Country TWWHA other stakeholders. Funding was regional biodiversity Biosecurity Program, which aims to reduce identified as necessary to ensure conservation measures the spread of pathogens, weeds and pests collaboration through regional through the development into the TWWHA. No other partnerships partnerships was developed and existing of regional partnerships or utilising existing structures were reported structures utilised. utilisation of appropriate by stakeholders. existing structures (Category 4). Action 5.2.8: Develop Largely no comment was provided by all NSW stated that this action was not Such a model could potentially guide regional and local model prototype regional stakeholders, with the exceptions of Vic., effective, while SA said it had not been management plans, and be a source of additional guidance management plans for where funding appeared to be the limiting done, but provided no comment on the material relevant to chytridiomycosis-free and chytrid- chytridiomycosis-free and factor, and ACT, where the action was not importance of the action. contaminated areas. In considering or developing regional chytrid-contaminated areas progressed due to no known chytrid free- The TAP has the potential to be management plans, regions need to be defined as either (Category 4). areas. effective in addressing this action, but species distribution zones or state/territory jurisdictions. If in developing a model regional plan, regions comprise species distribution zones and they cross complex cross jurisdictional issues with jurisdictional borders, management of such regional areas varying levels of priority may need to would potentially be affected by regional and local be addressed. As well any model management priorities. regional plan would need to be Regions of significance that cross state and territory developed collaboratively between borders need to be managed with the same level of various sections of the department, priority, resources and with the same end in mind, in a including Environmental Biosecurity, cooperative manner to ensure the best outcome. If there recovery planning, threatened species are no links between regions and how regional etc., in order to ensure that the plan is management plans are being implemented, work may not effective across various scales and be as effective on a broader scale and thus render the where cross jurisdictional boundaries model ineffective.

68 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action occur within the one region. Due to limited resources, both human and financial, co-ordination would be very important when developing such a model.

535 4.5.2.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 536 Stakeholders report that regional and local management plans have in general failed to address the issue of chytrid fungus. Recovery plans for 537 individual threatened amphibian species have often included chytrid fungus as a risk factor when considering reintroduction to the wild as an option 538 in order to increase populations and species numbers. 539 540 The review considers that the objectives of this action group have not been achieved.

541 4.5.3 Action group 5.3 – Undertake national coordination 542 The department (i.e. DSEWPaC) will provide support to the Amphibian Diseases Threat Abatement Committee (the committee) to assist and 543 monitor implementation of the plan, including reviewing the actions and broad priorities for funding, and highlighting gaps. The development of 544 education and extension material would be assisted by the involvement of the committee, which could also assess the potential for broader 545 application of management methods or approaches developed through local management plans.

546 4.5.3.1 Specified actions 547 Table 4.14 shows the actions under objective 5 - action group 5.3, the activities that have occurred in the jurisdictions under each of the actions and 548 the effectiveness of the action. At the end of the table an assessment has been made of the contribution of achievements to the abatement of the 549 threat posed by chytrid fungus to the species under threat. This assessment, together with those for the following objectives, has subsequently been 550 used to provide the overarching conclusions to this review in section six. 551 552 Table 4.14 Summary of national coordination actions. Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Action 5.3.1: Convene an While a national group was thought Through initiating the chytrid TAP A stakeholder working group was brought together at a Amphibian Diseases Threat to be a good idea, many jurisdictions review, identification of key workshop held in May 2012 to consider and advise the

69 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action Abatement Committee that thought this had not occurred. It was stakeholders from all states and review of the TAP review. This group consisted of a broad includes people with technical proposed that such a group should territories was paramount in requesting selection of people representing all states and territories, and practical experience in include people who had worked on feedback on the effectiveness of the from both state and federal government agencies, as well chytridiomycosis and amphibian chytrid under different seasonal TAP. Through this process, as leading researchers. It is proposed that this group will management and research, to conditions, in different habitat types, stakeholders were asked to indicate be called the ‘National Chytrid Group’ and take on the role assist implementing this plan and who have worked on threatened their interest in being part of a working and responsibilities of the proposed Amphibian Diseases (Category 1). frog species outside of the context of group to facilitate the review of the Threat Abatement Committee. chytrid management. TAP. This action has been partially met.

Action 5.3.2: The Committee to Largely no comment was provided on No comment was provided on the Implementation of this action could be considered in a ensure each action is costed, its this action. Vic. thought it was not effectiveness of this action by revision of the TAP. duration estimated, and given a relevant to them, while a stakeholders. Given that a committee ranking in terms of priority for representative from Qld thought it has not been developed yet, this action implementation and lead seemed essential but to their could be seen as ineffective for the organisation and person(s) knowledge thought it had not current TAP. responsible for the Action occurred. identified (Category 2). Action 5.3.3: Revise relevant Largely no comment was provided on The National Action Plan is in need of The National Action Plan for Australian Frogs has not sections of the National Action this action. However, the National revision, as it predates the been revised. Plan for Australian Frogs to Action Plan for Australian Frogs was understanding of the role of the include an evaluation of the suggested to be out of date, due to it disease. While this is still considered current status of the knowledge being written prior to a essential, given that no attempts to of the ecology of all Australian comprehensive understanding of the revise the National Action Plan are amphibian species and to role of chytrid fungus. This action evident, this action has been recommend appropriate was seen as essential, and while it ineffective. management actions to prevent was not known to have occurred, the infection with the amphibian plan being re-written was proposed chytrid resulting in instead of just a revision. chytridiomycosis or to decrease its impact (Category 3).

Action 5.3.4: The Committee to There are no state –based While communication lines are clear The establishment of such links is undoubtedly essential to establish clear links with state- Chytridiomycosis Threat Abatement and present in ACT, the large body of an informed national co-ordination of chytrid based Chytridiomycosis Threat teams or their equivalent. ACT knowledge and management tools management. Given that much of the information is Abatement Teams (or their reported that due to the small size of developed separately within each available, there may be no/low cost of identifying key equivalent), and with relevant the jurisdiction, communication lines jurisdiction may be underutilised due to players to act as channels (so people are the key points of

70 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Actions Key stakeholder comments Achievement Jurisdiction situation Effectiveness of Action regional and local bodies that are well established and clear a lack of links between relevant bodies. contacts/areas) so that information flow can start to better are responsible for management between land managers and wildlife Without well established pathways and inform management decisions on all levels from state to of infection with the amphibian researchers. links between states/regions and local local. chytrid, to ensure that clear lines groups, the lack of information flow The proposed communication strategy and the formation of communication are indicates this action must be of the National Chytrid Group would also expect to established that promote and ineffective. contribute to the achievement of this action. manage best practice in on- ground actions (Category 4).

553 4.5.3.2 Assessment of contribution to change of threat 554 The objectives of this action group have not yet been met. However, a stakeholder working group consisting of a broad selection of people 555 representing all states and territories, from both state and federal government agencies, as well as leading researchers, was formed at the May 2012 556 workshop. It is proposed that this group will be called the National Chytrid Group and take on the role and responsibilities of the proposed 557 Amphibian Diseases Threat Abatement Committee. 558 559 The formation of this stakeholder working group has provided some progress towards the actions of this group being met in the future. The 560 Commonwealth would be expected to support this group and have an ongoing coordination role in the actions under this objective. 561 4.5.4 Conclusion of assessment of contribution to change of threat from Objective 5 562 563 In conclusion, this review has found that overall Objective 5: Coordination of management activities has achieved little towards a change of threat 564 since the TAP was made in 2006. Many of the actions under this objective require implementation at the regional and state level but coordination 565 efforts are needed at the national level.

71 of 91 Item 12.1.3

566 12. 5. Funding and implementation of TAP 567 568 The Australian Government funded, through EPBC Act appropriation, the following seven 569 projects targeted specifically to key TAP actions: 570 571 1. “Emerging Amphibian Diseases and Disease Surveillance in Queensland – Stage 1 572 (January 2006 – January 2007 2010). James Cook University. $50,000 (2005-06). 573 2. “Emerging Amphibian Diseases and Disease Surveillance in Queensland – Stage 2 574 (February 2007 – April 2010). James Cook University. $41,400 (2006-07). 575 3. Experimental research to obtain a better understanding of the potential presence and 576 impact of new amphibian diseases in the Wet Tropics, Australia - Stage 1. CSIRO. 577 $385,371 (2006-07) 578 4. “Amphibian chytrid related research”. Australian Biosecurity Cooperative Research 579 Centre. $128,130 (2008-09). 580 5. “Development and validation of a rapid field test to detect the chytrid fungus 581 Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis at a high specificity and sensitivity, for use in surveys to 582 determine the distribution of chytridiomycosis”. Taronga Conservation Society Australia. 583 $38,038 (2010-11). 584 6. “Hygiene protocols for the control of diseases in Australian frogs” and “Guidelines for 585 minimising disease risks associated with captive breeding, raising and restocking 586 programs for Australian frogs”. James Cook University. $34,978 (2010-11). 587 7. Preparation of a disease strategy manual for amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium 588 dendrobatidis. James Cook University. $44,000 (2011-12). 589 590 The Australian Government Caring for our Country program has funded ten projects targeting 591 the recovery of threatened frogs and amphibians. These projects total $718,009. Two of the 592 projects specifically identify chytrid in their project summaries and the others include general 593 actions to assist in the recovery of the threatened species. This includes feral animal and 594 weed control, revegetation and other actions to improve water quality in wetlands etc. A 595 further seven projects that generally improve habitat for native Australian frogs have also 596 been funded, with a total value of $124,645. A summary of all of these projects is at 597 Attachment E. 598 599 The majority of funding specifically directed toward chytrid fungus research and development 600 has been obtained by universities through grants such as those provided by the Australian 601 Research Council. 602 603 A workshop of key stakeholders and experts held in May 2012 considered the issue of chytrid 604 fungus and the actions identified in the threat abatement plan. At that workshop the key 605 actions still to be undertaken were identified as: improved data collection to facilitate the 606 identification of the population level of threat in wild populations; a genome bank for the 607 cryopreservation of threatened species; continued research into the most effective methods of 608 mitigating and suppressing the disease in wild amphibian populations; and continued 609 improvement in communication on the disease. These actions will require significant funding 610 and resources to be achieved. 611 612

72 of 91 Item 12.1.3

613 13. 6. Conclusions

614 6.1 Completion of TAP actions 615 This TAP comprises 68 actions listed under five objectives. Of these it is considered that 616 eight actions have been completed, 39 actions have been completed in part, and 21 actions not 617 completed. Where the actions have been identified as being completed in part, this is 618 typically because the action relates to something that needs to be done across all the 619 threatened species, all of the states or because only a portion of the research has been 620 undertaken to date.

621 6.2 TAP action contribution to goals and objectives 622 The implementation of actions in this TAP has occurred in varying degrees across all of the 623 objectives. 624 625 The first objective focuses on the prevention of pathogen spread. Some of the actions under 626 this objective were found to be no longer relevant, in part due to new knowledge about the 627 disease and in part due to the almost complete spread of the disease to all climatically suitable 628 areas throughout Australia. The stakeholders commented that at this point in time it would be 629 much more useful to change the focus of this objective from trying to contain the disease (the 630 opportunity to achieve this has passed) to suppressing and mitigating the effects of the disease 631 on threatened amphibian populations. However, some good work has been achieved under 632 this objective, such as the development of hygiene protocols and a national disease strategy. 633 634 The second objective focuses on recovery of listed threatened species. There has been 635 important work undertaken during the life of this TAP to minimise the threat to and improve 636 the recovery of listed threatened amphibian species, mainly through the development of 637 captive breeding programs, but there is still much to be done. Priorities to be addressed 638 include: coordinated monitoring and surveillance programs; captive breeding and 639 reintroduction protocols for individual species; and the establishment of a genome bank. The 640 majority of the work to date has been supported by funding from independent sources and its 641 completion and implementation requires further funding and resources. When assessing 642 actions taken under this objective the conclusion is that the actions have made a very limited 643 contribution to threat abatement. There is no evidence to suggest an improvement in the 644 status of any of the identified threatened amphibians. None of the threatened frog species 645 listed at the time of the making of the TAP in 2006 have decreased in their threatened status. 646 However, four species have increased in their threatened status since 2006, including one 647 species being added to the threatened list. In many cases, there has been insufficient 648 monitoring and evaluation of the species to understand the population dynamics and there 649 may also be other significant threats to those species, such as habitat loss, meaning that the 650 species has not had a chance to recover. It is also not possible to determine whether chytrid 651 fungus is likely to become a key threatening process to amphibians that are currently not 652 threatened. 653 654 The third objective focuses on the research and monitoring required to further increase our 655 knowledge of chytrid fungus. Overall the review concludes that we now understand more 656 about the disease, including through the development of diagnostic tools and management 657 techniques for species that continue to decline due to chytrid fungus, but limited funding and 658 resources are restricting the achievement of many of the actions under this objective. For 659 example, it is critically important for the national management of chytrid fungus into the 660 future that Australia have a national quality accredited laboratory facility(ies) such as AAHL. 661 Additional answers are needed regarding the transmission, reservoirs and possible vectors of 73 of 91 Item 12.1.3

662 the disease and also the apparent resistance that some individuals demonstrate. The 663 conclusion for this objective is that some progress has been made during the life of the TAP 664 but further action is critical. 665 666 The fourth objective of stakeholder communication has not been met. Stakeholders report that 667 reporting and information sharing is not undertaken in any formal or structured way and due 668 to lack of resources the information on the central website specified in the objective has not 669 been updated since 2008. However, during the review process the stakeholders met and 670 developed a potential communication strategy to progress this objective and facilitate 671 improved communication. This has the potential to provide a central website for public 672 information and also an essential conduit between all stakeholders. 673 674 The fifth objective focuses on coordination of management actions and strategies. The review 675 found that little has been achieved under this objective since the TAP was made in 2006. 676 Many of the actions under this objective require implementation at the regional and state level 677 but coordination efforts are needed at the national level.

678 6.3 TAP goals 679 The TAP has two goals of to prevent amphibian populations or regions that are currently 680 chytridiomycosis-free from becoming infected by preventing further spread of the amphibian 681 chytrid within Australia; and to decrease the impact of infection with the amphibian chytrid 682 fungus on populations that are currently infected. 683 684 While there has been progress made on some of the actions identified in the TAP, such as the 685 development of hygiene protocols, a rapid field test to detect the chytrid fungus and some 686 research undertaken into the disease, it cannot be concluded that either of the two goals have 687 been met. The amphibian chytrid fungus has spread to almost all of the climatically suitable 688 areas in Australia, aside from a few isolated areas, for example the TWWHA. There is no 689 evidence to suggest an improvement in the status of any of the identified threatened 690 amphibians. None of the threatened frog species listed at the time of the making of the TAP in 691 2006 have decreased in their threatened status. However, four species have increased in their 692 threatened status since 2006, including one species being added to the threatened list. In many 693 cases, there has been insufficient monitoring and evaluation of the species to understand the 694 population dynamics and there may also be other significant threats to those species, such as 695 habitat loss, meaning that the species has not had a chance to recover. 696 697 In conclusion, the assessment of the review, as to whether the TAP has abated the threat from 698 chytrid fungus to threatened amphibian species, is that the threat is still current and has not 699 abated.

700 6.4 Outstanding issues 701 The key outstanding actions required under the TAP are: improved data collection to facilitate 702 the identification of the population level of threat in wild populations; a genome bank for the 703 cryopreservation of threatened species; continued research into the most effective methods of 704 mitigating and suppressing the disease in wild amphibian populations; and improvement in 705 communication on the disease. These actions were identified by the key stakeholders during 706 the consultation phase of the review process. There are other actions that were also identified 707 as warranting attention. 708 709 On the research side there are still significant gaps in our knowledge about the virus 710 characteristics, apparent immunity of some frog species and populations, and transmission 74 of 91 Item 12.1.3

711 factors including host factors, environment factors, population dynamics and other species as 712 reservoirs of the virus. 713 714 A lack of funding is severely limiting the implementation of many threat abatement actions 715 required under the TAP. For example, it is critically important for the national management of 716 chytrid into the future that Australia has a well funded, fully resourced national quality 717 accredited laboratory facility(ies) such as AAHL. The coordination of management actions 718 and strategies is also required. 719 720 As for recovery planning there are still gaps for some species in knowing whether chytrid 721 fungus is a significant threat and, for other species, what the impact is on a population level 722 relative to other threats. Even for those species where chytrid has been identified as a threat, 723 there is insufficient on-ground action to counter the threat. 724 725 There is some limited communication and information exchange occurring on chytrid fungus. 726 However, the review identified that this has been very ad hoc, should be better coordinated 727 nationally and needs to be considered in the future management of chytrid fungus. There will 728 be an ongoing challenge to ensure good communication continues with many other issues 729 demanding the time of those people interested in abating the threat of chytrid fungus. 730

75 of 91 Item 12.1.3

731 Reference list – cited and considered 732 Alford RA, Skerratt LF, Berger L, Speare R, Bell S, Kenyon N, Rowley JJL, Hauselberger K, 733 Young S, Voyles J, Puschendorf R, Cashins S, Webb R, Campbell R and Mendez D 734 (2010). Final Report to Department of the Environment and Heritage on work 735 completed for RFT 43/2004, “Experimental research to obtain a better understanding 736 of the pathogenesis of chytridiomycosis, and the susceptibility and resistance of key 737 amphibian species to chytridiomycosis in Australia”. Accessed Sept 2011. Available 738 from: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/publications/pubs/pathogenesis-of- 739 chytridiomycosis.pdf 740 Allan K and Gartenstein S (2010). Keeping it clean: A Tasmanian field hygiene manual to 741 prevent the spread of freshwater pests and pathogens. Published by Natural Resource 742 Management South, Tasmania. 743 744 Berger L, Longcore J, Speare R, Hyatt A, Skerratt LF (2009a). Fungal Diseases in 745 Amphibians. Pp 2986-3052 in: Amphibian Biology, Volume 8 Amphibian Decline: 746 Disease, Parasites, Maladies, and Pollution. Edited by H Heatwole and JW Wilkinson, 747 Surrey Beatty & Sons. NSW. 748 749 Berger L, Speare R, Marantelli G, Skerratt LF (2009b). A technique to evaluate the activity of 750 antifungal compounds against Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and unsuccessful 751 treatment of experimentally infected green tree frogs (Litoria caerulea) by fluconazole 752 and benzalkonium chloride. Research in Veterinary Science, 87: 106-110. 753 Berger L, Speare R, Pessier A, Voyles J, Skerratt LF. (2010). Treatment of chytridiomycosis 754 requires urgent clinical trials. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 02: 165-174. 755 Cashins (2010), PhD Thesis 756 Chatfield MWH. et al. (2011) Elevated temperature as a treatment for Batrachochytrium 757 dendrobatidis infection in captive frogs. Diseases of aquatic organisms 94, no. 3 758 759 Clemann N, Hunter D, Scroggie M, Pietsch R and Hollis G. (2009/10). Vanishing frogs: 760 prevalence of the Amphibian Chytrid Fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) in 761 populations of key species in the Australian Alps. Arthur Rylah Institute for 762 Environmental Research, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Heidelberg, 763 Victoria. 764 Ficetola GF, Miaud C, Pompanon F& Taberlet P. (2008) Species detection using 765 environmental DNA from water samples. Biology Letters, 4, 423-425 766 Garland et al. unpublished-JCU submission 767 Garland S, Wood J, Skerratt LF. (2011). Comparison of sensitivity between the real-time 768 detection of a TaqMan assay for Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and conventional 769 detection. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms, 94: 101-105. 770 Garner TWJ. et al. (2009). Using itraconazole to clear Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis 771 infection, and subsequent depigmentation of Alytes muletensis tadpoles. Diseases of 772 aquatic organisms 83, no. 3 773 Harris R N, Lauer A, Simon M A, Banning J L, and Alford R A. (2009). Addition of 774 antifungal skin bacteria to salamanders ameliorates the effects of chytridiomycosis. 775 Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 83:11–16. doi: 10.3354/dao02004 776 Hauselberger K. Ph.D. thesis JCU 76 of 91 Item 12.1.3

777 Hauselberger K & Alford R. (2005) 778 779 Heard GW, Scroggie MP & Clemann N (2012). Correlates and consequences of 780 chytridiomycosis for populations of the Growling Grass Frog in peri-urban 781 Melbourne. Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research Unpublished Report to 782 DSE Port Phillip Region, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Heidelberg, 783 Victoria [Draft] 784 785 Howard K, Antrobus J & Clemann N. (2010). The status of the threatened Alpine Tree Frog 786 Litoria verreauxii alpina after the Black Saturday fires at Lake Mountain and Mount 787 Bullfight Nature Conservation Reserve. Department of Sustainability and 788 Environment, Heidelberg, Victoria 789 Hunter (2009) Developing a protocol for the detection and quantification of 790 Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in the environment. Honours Thesis, University of 791 Newcastle 792 Hunter DA, Speare R, Marantelli G, Mendez D, Pietsch R & Osborne W (2010). Presence of 793 the amphibian chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, in threatened 794 corroboree frog populations in the Australia Alps. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 795 2010 doi: 10.3354/dao02118. 796 Hunter D, Pietsch R, Clemann N, Scroggie M, Hollis G, & Marantelli G (2009). Prevalence 797 of the Amphibian Chytrid Fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) in the Australian 798 Alps. Unpublished Report to the Australian Alps Liaison Committee: January 2009. 799 Pp 1-22. 800 Hyatt 1,* D G Boyle1, V Olsen1, D B Boyle1, L Berger2, D Obendorf3, A Dalton4, K 801 Kriger5, M Hero5, H Hines6, R Phillott7, R Campbell7, G Marantelli8, F Gleason9, A 802 Colling (2007) Diagnostic assays and sampling protocols for the detection of 803 Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis A D DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS Vol. 804 73: 175–192 805 Kriger KM, Hines HB, Hyatt AD, Boyle D G & Hero J-M (2006). Techniques for detecting 806 chytridiomycosis in wild frogs: comparing histology with real-time Taqman PCR. 807 DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS Vol. 71: 141–148. 808 Lips K R, Brem F, Brenes R, Reeve JD, Alford R A, Voyles J, Carey C, Livo L, Pessier A P, 809 and Collins J P (2006). Emerging infectious disease and the loss of biodiversity in a 810 Neotropical amphibian community. Proceedings Of The National Academy Of 811 Sciences Of The United States Of America 103:3165–3170. 812 doi: 10.1073/pnas.0506889103. 813 Mahony & Clulow (unpublished report) Cryopreservation and Reconstitution Technologies: 814 A Proposal to Establish A Genome Resource Bank For Threatened Australian 815 Amphibians. 816 McCarthy M (2008). Ecological modelling for the corroboree frog captive breeding and 817 reintroduction program. Unpublished report to the ACT Government. School of 818 Botany, University of Melbourne 819 McDonald KR, Bolitho E, Dennis A, Simpson N and Winter JW (2000). Recovery plan for 820 the magnificent broodfrog Pseudophryne covacevichae 2000-2004. Unpublished 821 report to Environment Australia, Canberra.

77 of 91 Item 12.1.3

822 Murray KA, Skerratt LF, Speare R, McCallum H(2009). Impact and dynamics of disease in 823 species threatened by the amphibian chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. 824 Conservation Biology 23: 1242-1252. 825 Murray KA, Skerratt LF, Speare R, McCallum H (2010a). Evidence of effects of endemic 826 chytridiomycosis on host survival, behavior, and emigration: reply to Schmidt. 827 Conservation Biology 24: 900-902. 828 Murray KA, Retallick R, McDonald KR, Mendez D, Aplin K, Kirkpatrick P, Berger L, 829 Hunter D, Hines HB, Campbell R, Pauza M, Driessen M, Speare R, Richards 830 SJ, Mahony M, Freeman A, Phillott AD, Hero J-M, Driscoll D, Puschendorf R, 831 Skerratt LF. (2010b). The distribution and host range of the pandemic disease 832 chytridiomycosis in Australia spanning surveys from 1956 to 2007. Ecology 91: 1557. 833 Murray KA, Rosauer D, McCallum H, Skerratt LF (2011a). Integrating species traits with 834 extrinsic threats: closing the gap between predicting and preventing species declines. 835 Proceedings of the Royal Society B-Biological Sciences 278: 1515-1523. 836 Murray KA, Skerratt LF, Garland S, Kriticos DJ, McCallum H. in review. Whether (and how) 837 the weather drives patterns of endemic amphibian chytridiomycosis: a pathogen 838 proliferation approach. 839 Murray KA, Skerratt L, Marantelli G, Berger L, Hunter D, Mahony M and Hines H (2011b). 840 Guidelines for minimising disease risks associated with captive breeding, raising and 841 restocking programs for Australian frogs. A report for the Australian Government 842 Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities. 843 Murray KA, Skerratt LF, Marantelli G, Berger L, Hunter D, Mahony M, Hines H (2011c). 844 Hygiene protocols for the control of diseases in Australian frogs. 845 http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/publications/pubs/frogs- 846 hygiene-protocols.pdf. Report no. 847 Murray KA, Retallick RWR, Puschendorf R, Skerratt LF, Rosauer D, McCallum H, Berger L, 848 Speare R, VanDerWal J (2011d). Assessing spatial patterns of disease risk to 849 biodiversity: implications for the management of the amphibian pathogen, 850 Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. Journal of Applied Ecology 48: 163-173. 851 Murray KA, Retallick RWR, Puschendorf R, Skerratt LF, Rosauer D, McCallum H, Berger L, 852 Speare R, VanDerWal J (2011e). Issues with modelling the current and future 853 distribution of invasive pathogens. Journal of Applied Ecology 48: 177-180. 854 Murray KA and Skerratt LF (2012). Predicting wild hosts for amphibian chytridiomycosis: 855 integrating host life-history traits with pathogen environmental requirements. Human 856 and Ecological Risk Assessment 18: 200-224 857

858 Notomi et al. (2000) 859

860 North, S And Alford R, (2008). Infection intensity and sampling locality affect 861 Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis distribution among body regions on green-eyed tree 862 frogs Litoria genimaculata. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 81, 177-188. 863 NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001). Yellow-spotted Bell Frog (Litoria 864 castanea) and Peppered Tree Frog (Litoria piperata) recovery plan. NPWS, 865 Hurstville, NSW.

78 of 91 Item 12.1.3

866 Phalen D, Slapeta J, King J, Rose K (2011). Development and validation of a rapid field test 867 to detect the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis at a high specificity and 868 sensitivity, for use in surveys to determine the distribution of Chytridiomycosis. 869 Australian Registry of Wildlife Health, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, 870 Mosman New South Wales. A report for the Australian Government Department of 871 Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities. 872 Phillips A, Voyles, J, Wilson D and Driessen M (2010). Tasmanian Chytrid Management 873 Plan. Published by Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, 874 Tasmania.

875 Pessier AP and JR Mendelson (eds.) (2010). A Manual for Control of Infectious Diseases in 876 Amphibian Survival Assurance Colonies and Reintroduction Programs. IUCN/SSC 877 Conservation Breeding Specialist Group: Apple Valley, MN.

878 Puschendorf R, Hoskin CJ, Cashins SD, McDonald KR, Skerratt LF, Vanderwal J, Alford RA 879 (2011). Environmental refuge from disease-driven amphibian extinction. 880 Conservation Biology 25:956-964.

881 Skerratt LF, Berger L, Hines HB, McDonald KR, Mendez D, Speare R (2008). Survey 882 protocol for detecting chytridiomycosis in all Australian frog populations. Diseases of 883 Aquatic Organisms 80: 85-94. 884 Skerratt LF, McDonald KR, Hines HB, Berger L, Mendez D, Phillott A, Cashins SD, Murray 885 KA, Speare R (2010a). Validation of the mapping protocol for Batrachochytrium 886 dendrobatidis in Queensland, Australia Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 92: 117-129. 887 Skerratt LF, Phillott AD, Cashins SD, Webb R, Puschendorf R, Windmiller, B, James R, 888 Robbins A, Berger L, Voyles J, Speare R, Alford RA, McDonald K, Mendez D, 889 VanDerWal J and Garland S (2010b). Final report to Department of the Environment 890 and Heritage on RFT 42/2004 Experimental research to obtain a better understanding 891 of the epidemiology, transmission and dispersal of amphibian chytrid fungus in 892 Australian ecosystems Accessed Sept 2011. Available from: 893 http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/publications/pubs/amphibian-chytrid- 894 fungus.pdf 895 Skerratt LF, Mendez D, McDonald K, Garland S, Livingstone J, Berger L, Speare R (2011). 896 Validation of diagnostic tests in wildlife: the case of chytridiomycosis in wild 897 amphibians. Journal of Herpetology 45: 444-450. 898 Shoo LP, Olson DH, McMenamin SK, Murray KA, Van Sluys M, Donnelly MA, Stratford D, 899 Terhivuo J, Merino-Viteri A, Herbert SM, Bishop PJ, Corn PS, Dovey L, Griffiths 900 RA, Lowe K, Mahony M, McCallum H, Shuker JD, Simpkins C, Skerratt LF, 901 Williams SE, Hero J-M. (2011). Engineering a future for amphibians under climate 902 change. Journal of Applied Ecology, doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2664.2010.01942.x. 903 Stice MJ and BriggsCJ (2010). Immunization is ineffective at preventing infection and 904 mortality due to the amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. 905 Journal of Wildlife Diseases, 46(1): 70-77. 906 Stockwell M (2011) PhD Thesis - Impact and mitigation of the emerging infectious disease 907 chytridiomycosis on the endangered green and golden bell frog. The University of 908 Newcastle. 909 910 Turner R, Suitor L and Marsland K (2011). Southern Bell Frog (Litoria raniformis) Census 911 and Community Engagement Project in the Lower River Murray, South Australia. A 79 of 91 Item 12.1.3

912 Report for the South Australian Murray-Darling Basin Natural Resources 913 Management Board, Murray Bridge. 914 Van Sluys M, Kriger KM, Phillott AD, Campbell R, Skerratt LF, Hero JM (2008). Storage of 915 samples at high temperatures reduces the amount of amphibian chytrid fungus 916 Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis DNA detectable by PCR assay. Diseases of Aquatic 917 Organisms 81, 93-97. 918 919 Woodhams DC et al (2012). Treatment of amphibians infected with chytrid fungus: learning 920 from failed trials with itraconazole, antimicrobial peptides, bacteria, and heat therapy. 921 Diseases of aquatic organisms 98, no. 1

80 of 91 Item 12.1.3

922 Attachment A: amphibian chytrid fungus websites 923 924 Australian Government website resources: 925 926 Threat Abatement Plan: 927 http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/tap/chytrid.html 928 929 Hygiene protocols for the control of diseases in Australian frogs: 930 http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/publications/frogs-hygiene- 931 protocols.html 932 933 Guidelines for minimising disease risks associated with captive breeding, raising and 934 restocking programs for Australian frogs: 935 http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/publications/frogs-captive- 936 breeding.html 937 938 Development and validation of a rapid field test to detect the chytrid fungus 939 Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis at a high specificity and sensitivity, for use in surveys to 940 determine the distribution of Chytridiomycosis: 941 http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/publications/chytrid-fungus-field- 942 test.html 943 944 Further information on amphibian chytrid fungus: 945 http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/ktp/frog-fungus.html 946 947 Emerging amphibian diseases and disease surveillance in Queensland - Stage 2 (February 948 2007 – April 2010): 949 http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/publications/60776-emerging- 950 amphibian-diseases.html 951 952 Emerging amphibian diseases and disease surveillance in Queensland - Stage 1 (January 2006 953 - January 2007): 954 http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/publications/threat-abatement- 955 projects/cerf-emerging-amphibian-diseases.html 956 957 Poster: http://www.environment.gov.au/about/publications/index-posters.html#invasive 958 959 960 State and territory government website information: Government Information Website link available ACT Factsheet http://www.tams.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/1 58200/MR256_0709_Corroboree_frog_breeding_progra Vm.pdf (accessed 17/7/2012) NSW Statement of http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/threatened Intent; species/09479soi2chytrid.pdf (accessed 17/7/2012)

Key threatening http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/animals/amphibianc process listing hytridktplisting.htm (accessed 17/7/2012)

81 of 91 Item 12.1.3

NT Listed as a threat http://www.nretas.nt.gov.au/plants-and- to green tree frog animals/animals/native/common/frog (accessed on website 17/7/2012)

Qld Northern Recovery Plan for the stream-dwelling rainforest frogs of the wet Queensland tropics biogeographic region of north-east Queensland 2000 - 2004 Threatened Frogs (accessed 17/7/2012) Recovery Team (NQTFRT), 2001) [State Recovery Plan];

Individual frog http://wetlandinfo.derm.qld.gov.au/wetlands/factsfigures/ species fact sheets FloraAndFauna/Species/litoria-rheocola.html (1 example of the factsheets - accessed 17/7/2012)

SA Various recovery Unable to obtain link to pdf documents plans Tas. Tasmanian http://www.dpiw.tas.gov.au/inter.nsf/Publications/LJEM- Chytrid 8887EH?open Management (accessed 17/7/2012) Plan;

Listed as a threat http://www.dpiw.tas.gov.au/inter.nsf/WebPages/LJEM- to wildlife on 673V89?open (accessed 17/7/2012) website;

Report on http://www.dpiw.tas.gov.au/inter.nsf/Attachments/LJEM- Amphibian 7BY3CR?open (accessed 17/7/2012 Chytrid Fungus in the TWWHA Vic. Guidelines for http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/12 managing 8902/ARI-Technical-Series-GGF-guidelines-2010.pdf Growling Grass (accessed 17/7/2012) Frog; Action Statement http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/10 for Booroolong 3199/118_Booroolong_Frog_2001.pdf (accessed Frog; 17/7/2012) Media release – http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/about-dse/media- Spotted Tree releases/spotted-tree-frogs-hop-back-to-top-spot Frogs (accessed 17/7/2012)

WA Assessment of http://www.dsd.wa.gov.au/documents/HLA_(2005c)_Chy chytrid fungus in trid_Fungus_report.pdf (accessed 17/7/2012) frogs Ord River Irrigation Area Report (2005) 961 962

82 of 91 Item 12.1.3

963 Other websites with information about amphibian chytrid fungus. Note that this list is not 964 exhaustive but is illustrative of the interested parties in Australia. 965 966 Australian Wildlife Health Network: 967 Chytrid factsheet: 968 http://www.wildlifehealth.org.au/AWHN_Admin/ManageWebsite/FactSheets/UploadedFiles/ 969 120/Chytridiomycosis%208%20Aug%202009%20(2.1).pdf (accessed 17/7/2012). 970 971 Bulletin Board: http://www.wildlifehealth.org.au/AWHN/Forum/ListPosting.aspx? 972 TopicID=48 (accessed 17/7/2012). 973 974 Frogs Australia: 975 http://www.frogsaustralia.net.au/conservation/disease.cfm (accessed 17/7/2012). 976 977 Amphibian Research Centre 978 http://frogs.org.au/arc/ (accessed 17/7/2012). 979 980 Victorian Frog Group: 981 http://frogs.org.au/vfg/features/fungus2001.html (accessed 17/7/2012). 982 983 Amphibian Diseases Home Page 984 http://www.jcu.edu.au/school/phtm/PHTM/frogs/ampdis.htm (accessed 17/7/2012). 985 986 Frogwatch – ACT 987 http://www.ginninderralandcare.org.au/frogwatch (accessed 17/7/2012). 988 989 James Cook University: 990 http://www.jcu.edu.au/ (too many reports and links to list – see reference list of this review 991 report) 992

83 of 91 Item 12.1.3

993 Attachment B: Map of the distribution of chytridiomycosis (with dates of 994 first detection)

995 996 From Murray et al (2010)

84 of 91 Item 12.1.3

997 Attachment C – Critical gaps in knowledge about chytrid fungus 998 999 Fungus characteristics/infection 1000  Trigger points required to establish infection and/or cause extinction of a population 1001  Role of probiotics 1002  Differences between strains of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis 1003  Role of skin bacteria in resistance to infection 1004  Role of temperature, heavy metals and salinity to reduce infection 1005 1006 Immunity 1007  Levels of acquired and innate immunity is extremely variable – why? 1008  Why are naive populations naive? 1009  Understand ‘secure’ populations within infected areas 1010 1011 Transmission 1012 Host factors 1013  Presence of clinically normal carriers and their role in disseminating the zoospores 1014 1015 Environment 1016  Rates of persistence of fungal spores in different environments 1017  Why is the situation in WA so different 1018 1019 Population dynamics 1020  Effects of endemic chytrid infection on population viability analyses 1021  Effects of endemic infection on survivorship in common species and how this might change in 1022 fragmented populations or endangered species 1023  Spatial and landscape dynamics of infection 1024  Minimum population size required to initiate and maintain infection - influence of spatial, 1025 temporal and landscape effects 1026 1027 Reservoir species/other species 1028  Reservoir species - do they exist naturally and what is the effect? 1029  Can non-amphibian species carry/disseminate infection? 1030  Cross-species transmission - rates, virulence, dynamics of infection, the interplay between 1031 different populations and species 1032 1033 Survival assurance strategies 1034  Develop protocols for captive bred populations of at risk species 1035  Pilot programs for successful reintroduction – habitat modification, bio-augmentation 1036  Evaluate risks and benefits of translocations and reintroductions

85 of 91 Item 12.1.3

1037 Attachment D: Recovery plans and other advices TAP Species Listing Listing Conservation Conservation Recovery plan Recovery State or State or territory advice advice advice exists advice exists plan territory plan mentions exists mentions mentions mentions plan exists Rheobatrachus silu s x x  Major cause x southerngastric- of decline brooding frog (EX) and an objective of the recovery plan Rheobatrachus x x  Investigation x vitellinus of Chytrid is northern gastric- an action brooding under this frog/Eungella gastric plan – brooding frog (EX) Taudactylus x x  Most likely x acutirostris cause of sharp-snouted day some fog/ sharp- snouted declines and torrent frog (EX) an action under this plan Taudactylus diurnus x x  Major cause x southern day frog/ Mt of decline Glorious torrent frog and an (EX) objective of the recovery plan Litoria lorica  Chytrid  Chytrid main  Most likely x armoured mistfrog main cause of cause of (CE) cause of decline some decline declines and an action under this plan Litoria nyakalensis  Chytrid  Chytrid  Most likely x

86 of 91 Item 12.1.3 mountain mistfrog contribute contributed to cause of (CE) d to the the decline some decline declines and an action under this plan Taudactylus pleione  Chytrid x  Major cause QLD Undetermined Kroombit tinker frog/ contribute of decline (fault in website) Pleione’s torrent frog d to the and an (CE) decline objective of the recovery plan Geocrinia alba x x  No mention x white-bellied frog/creek frog (E) Litoria  Chytrid  Chytrid Only Chytrid NSW & Chytrid potential booroolongensis contribute contributed to TAP VIC cause factor for Booroolong frog (E) d to the the decline declines in frogs decline Litoria castanea x x  Mentions NSW Chytrid potential yellow-spotted tree disease but cause factor for frog/ yellow-spotted not chytrid declines in frogs bell frog (E) specifically Litoria myola  Potential  Potential threat Only Chytrid x Kuranda tree frog (E) threat TAP Litoria nannotis x x  Most likely x waterfall frog/ torrent cause of tree frog (E) some declines and an action under this plan Litoria rheocola x x  Most likely x common mistfrog (E) cause of some declines and an action under this plan 87 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Litoria spenceri x x  Severity is NSW & VIC mentioned spotted tree frog (E) not yet determined. More as a opportunistic pathogen. To be investigated. Mixophyes fleayi x x  Major cause NSW mentioned Fleay’s frog (E) of decline and an objective of the recovery plan Mixophyes iteratus x x  Major cause NSW &QLD Not mentioned (fault giant barred frog/ of decline in website) southern barred frog and an (E) objective of the recovery plan Nyctimystes dayi x x  Most likely x lace-eyed tree frog/ cause of Australian lacelid some declines and an action under this plan Philoria frosti x x  Significance VIC Not mentioned Baw Baw Frog (E) is unknown but an action in the plan Pseudophryne x x  Could be a NSW Mentioned corroboree cause but southern corroboree not yet frog (E) determined it will be an action under this plan 88 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Spicospina x x x WA Not mentioned flammocaerulea sunset frog (E) Taudactylus Investigation x  Could be a x eungellensis of Chytrid is cause but Eungella day frog (E) a action not yet under this determined plan it will be an action under this plan Taudactylus x x  Most likely x rheophilus cause of Tinkling frog (E) some declines and an action under this plan Geocrinia vitellina x x  Not x orange-bellied frog mentioned (V) Heleioporus x x x NSW & VIC mentioned australiacus giant burrowing frog (V) Litoria aurea x x x NSW mentioned green and golden bell frog (V) Litoria littlejohni x  Considered a x NSW mentioned Littlejohn’s tree frog/ threat Heath frog (V) Litoria olongburensis x x  Potential NSW mentioned Wallum Sedge frog threat (V) considered and considered as a action plan Litoria piperata x x  Disease is NSW mentioned peppered tree frog mentioned 89 of 91 Item 12.1.3

(V) but not actually chytrid Litoria raniformis x x x NSW &SA & mentioned growling grass TAS & VIC frog/southern bell frog/ green and golden frog/ warty swamp frog (V) Litoria verreauxii x x x NSW mentioned alpina Alpine tree frog/ Verreaux’s Alpine tree frog (V) Mixophyes balbus x x  Most likely NSW mentioned stuttering cause of frog/southern barred some frog (In Vic. only) (V) declines and an action under this plan Pseudophryne x x  Not x covacevichae mentioned magnificent brood frog (V) Pseudophryne x x x ACT & NSW Mentioned pengilleyi northern corroboree frog (V) 1038

90 of 91 Item 12.1.3

1039 Attachment E: Caring for our Country projects targeting threatened amphibian species identified in the TAP. Grant Proponent State Project description Value

*2010-2011 Southern Regional Natural Resource TAS This project will deliver an integrated approach to minimise the spread of chytrid, $599 615 Management Association platypus mucor and other key freshwater and terrestrial pests and pathogens in the OC11-01420 Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

* 2007/2008 NRM VIC This project will survey frog species across the Australian Alps for the amphibian chytridiomycosis fungus. Surveys will be undertaken for new populations of the Alpine $48,137 68276 Tree Frog and the Common Froglet to better understand the distribution and relationship of these species. Appropriate linkages with the Glenelg Hopkins CMA project on chytrid fungus (see GH0607.09.13 Innovations and Future Directions – Innovation) should be developed. 2012-2013 Murray Catchment NSW Droughts, flooding, Carp invasion and Willow infestation have caused major declines in $189,332 Management Authority populations of Southern Pygmy Perch and Booroolong Frogs in the Upper Murray OC13-00525 Catchment and across NSW. This project will enhance recovery of the populations in Coppabella Creek by addressing critical threats to remnant populations and restoring key habitat areas. 2011-2012 Lachlan Catchment Management Authority NSW Blakney Creek has been identified as a hotspot for endangered aquatic species, including the recently found yellow spotted bell frog. The resilience of these $242,00 OC12-00326 endangered aquatic species will be increased through the rehabilitation and conservation of suitable habitat that will link isolated populations. An engagement strategy will support farm planning and a monitoring program will demonstrate successes. 2011/2012 Albury Conservation Co Ltd NSW This project contributes to the long term protection and enhancement of biodiversity in Woolshed/Thurgoona Landcare Group the Thurgoona/Woolshed area as Albury continues to expand into farmland. The area CAG-726524-660 is special: The Thurgoona Threatened Species Conservation Strategy (2005) lists 118 native birds, six of which are listed as threatened, as well as good populations of the threatened squirrel glider. Recently the vulnerable (NSW) sloane’s froglet has also been identified in some farm dams and wetlands around Thurgoona but distribution is $19,400 patchy. As well as environmental outcomes there is opportunity for biodiversity protection and enhancement to catalyse continued and growing cooperation between urban, peri-urban

2011/2012 NSW This project aims to halt degradation of lowland rainforest (an Endangered Ecological $17,730 Application Software Engineering Pty Ltd Community) focussing on the waterway. This waterway contains a series of CAG-723012-570 established frog ponds currently being invaded by a number of Weeds of National Significance e.g. gleditsia. We will employ professional bush regenerators to train and oversee groups of community volunteers in land management activities and revegetation. These activities will improve the habitat for the 20 known species of frogs (including the green and golden bell frog and green-thighed tree frog) which have been recorded in this waterway. This project will culminate in a field day to promote the project's land management achievements and to further raise environmental

91 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Grant Proponent State Project description Value

awareness amongst the wider community.

2011/2012 VIC This project aims to protect and enhance native habitat in the Lismore Landcare $17,830 VFF Farm Tree & Landcare Association Inc network area of the Victorian Volcanic Plains, including threatened species habitat CAG-720071-354 protection and enhancement for Corangamite water skink, growling grass frog (green and gold bell frog), striped legless lizard and brolga. Protective fencing of remnant native grassland vegetation, natural wetlands and stony barriers will enhance native habitat value by separating significant areas from more cultivated areas of farms. This project will also involve weed control and additional planting of indigenous species (where appropriate).

2011/2012 NSW This project will provide research results and extension to improve riparian condition Holbrook Landcare Group and habitat. The project will focus on threatened and endangered fish and amphibians, $20,000 CAG-719549-305 in the upper reaches of the Murray Darling Basin, target species are great bio indicators of healthy waterways. The project will add to existing local CSIRO research on the impact of revegetation work on remnant threatened woodlands and land based fauna. Information on the value of riparian plantings for aquatic ecosystems will add significantly to the landscape picture. Community engagement will reinforce the importance of fragile riparian ecosystems. The project will compliment a strategic fertiliser project to limit nutrient loss into the air and water 2011/2012 TAS The aim of this project is to improve bank and flood plain stability along a section of the lower South Esk River in Northern Tasmania to reduce sediment deposition CAG-729280-913 Northern Midlands Council downstream. Works will include planting native shrubs and trees, grasses and sedges. $13,620 Also filling and direct seeding strips along the banks which were scoured during recent successive floods. These works will in the long term support multiple outcomes of improved water quality (beneficial for all) and habitat value outcomes for species including the green and gold frog.

2010/2011 Noosa QLD The project will re‐establish habitat and biodiversity by weeding, revegetation and $9,995 Integrated rehabilitation in the Seaview Creek Reserve. This reserve is the only permanent water CAG10‐00780 Catchment and wildlife corridor, linking the Noosa National Park and dune foreshore for seven Association Inc kilometres. Weeds smothering the riparian vegetation inhibit wildlife passage and excess nutrients inhibit wallum froglet breeding. Due to the sensitive nature of the aquatic ecosystem, contractors and volunteers will weed by hand with minimal use of herbicides. Local provenance plants will be propagated, planted and maintained by volunteers and Landcare members. The community will be engaged through leaflets, word of mouth and meetings that address invasive weeds and their safe removal. The local council will remove rubbish and Noosa Water Watch will monitor water quality. Volunteers will maintain rehabilitated areas. Signage at the lower creek, boardwalk and beach shower will be installed to promote awareness of vulnerable acid frogs, wildlife,

92 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Grant Proponent State Project description Value

clean water, weed removal, and the impact of plastic bags and rubbish.

2011/2012 SA Improvement of rare remnant and regenerated ecosystem. Red gum woodland with rich diverse understorey including creek floodplain and wetland. The area contains CAG-733862- Village Community Co-Operative Ltd prostrate blue devil (Eryngium vesiculosum) listed rare and poorly known, fen sedge 1007 (Carex gaudichaudiana) and long purpleflag (Patersonia occidentalis) listed as uncommon and is host to rich animal and birdlife including several species of frog, $5,600 seasonal habitat for ibis, heron, grebe and much more. Specific assistance sought to remove invasive weed species, lessening threat and increasing area for regeneration and planting.

2011/2012 TAS The project involves the creation of a natural wetland reserve in the area known currently as the Westbury Town Common. This community area is 12.13 hectares in CAG-720166-366 Westbury Working Together Inc. size and is located on the banks and flood plain of Quamby Brook. The area is largely cleared and grassed with minimal native vegetation. The Westbury Working Together Committee are seeking to re-establish the natural riparian vegetation and wetlands on the site and provide appropriate native habitat for birds, frogs and other animals as well as nurseries for fish. A diversity of habitats will result - floodplain grasslands, $10,950 billabongs, paperbark groves, shrubby forest elements, aquatic plantings and shade over the brook. Five threatened species will be protected

2010/2011 Noosa QLD The project will focus on rehabilitating a permanent freshwater lagoon vital for survival Integrated of turtles, several waterbird species, frogs and reptiles. The lagoon is being invaded CAG10‐00198 Catchment and choked by para grass. The project will engage students from the University of the Association Inc Sunshine Coast in a one week research project to study and report on the success of regeneration projects for wildlife habitat. A community engagement process will be $19,895 undertaken to raise awareness of the value of natural environments in general and this particular area specifically. Contractors will be engaged to rehabilitate the lagoon, halt the weed infestation and improve water quality at a rate that will not endanger the water dependant fauna species inhabiting the lagoon. Woody weeds including lantana, camphor laurel, Easter cassia and others will be removed to help rehabilitate the wildlife corridor from Tewantin National Park, through Heritage Park to the Great Sandy National Park. Volunteers will continue to monitor and maintain targeted areas.

93 of 91 Item 12.1.3

Grant Proponent State Project description Value

2011/2012 VIC This project protects and ensures the biodiversity of the tidal reach of the Spring Creek corridor, specifically along Bowman's Track. The preparatory work involves removal of CAG-722101-525 Torquay Landcare Group Inc weeds (serrated tussock, a Weed of National Significance) followed by ecological restoration and revegetation (including degraded areas) with indigenous species $19,800 (threatened Moonahs Ecological Vegetation Classes 858 endangered). The project evolves from a cultural survey and Ecological Vegetation Classes Assessment 2009 (potential gain of 1.66 hectares). Torquay Landcare Group will consult with the Surf Coast Shire. The project includes the installation of information and interpretation boards outlining the Indigenous history, local flora and fauna (including aquatic), weed control, the creek, adjacent frog ponds, and Who is John Bowman (Landcare legend).

2010/2011 Kimberley WA As the cane toad moves across Northern Australia, there has been misidentification of Toadbusters both cane toads and native frogs. This project will mitigate the impacts of cane toads CAG10‐00678 Inc on biodiversity through community engagement, including knowledge and skills on how to indentify cane toads and ways to control them. Information sessions will be held at local schools, in Indigenous communities, and at mine and construction sites. A $20,000 website will be developed, brochures will be distributed at tourist information centres and educational advertorials placed in local newspapers.

2010/201 Wilson Inlet WA The project will raise awareness and increase the appreciation of the unique Catchment biodiversity within the Wilson Inlet catchment by holding field days, workshops and CAG10‐00860 Committee Inc practical activities to engage the community. The local media will promote the activities to be undertaken. Awareness raising events will be held on relevant subjects such as sub sustainable farming planning, nutrient management, and fauna identification $19,400 including birds, frogs and nocturnal marsupials. Activities will also include feral animal and weed control. Community appreciation for the natural environment will be enhanced to encourage protection of remnant vegetation and the creation of wildlife corridors. The project will lead to increased productivity and sustainable agriculture while balancing the need for the protection and enhancement of biodiversity.

2011/2012 NT The proposal is to protect the biodiversity, particularly the reptiles, of the coastal fringe FrogWatch Nth Inc of Darwin from Vesteys Beach through to Lee Point by implementing a cane toad CAG-721755-501 management strategy, combined with other habitat management, to minimise the impact of cane toads in the area, and especially to minimise cane toad breeding. We $20,000 also propose to begin a monitoring process which will allow us to document the success of the management strategy, especially in relation to the endangered species Varanus panoptes. Observations show that we still have species present in these areas that have vanished from other locations in the top end. We believe this to be largely due to the success of the Community Cane Toad Control Initiative

1040

94 of 91

Load more

  94

Copy Link