What Is the Fungus That Causes White-Nose Syndrome in Bats?
Learn about Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the fungus causing White-nose Syndrome and threatening bat populations in North America.
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The fungus that attacks bats is known as Pseudogymnoascus destructans, causing White-nose Syndrome. This disease has greatly impacted bat populations across North America, leading to significant declines since its discovery in 2006. The fungus thrives in cold environments, infecting bats during hibernation and causing irritation that prematurely awakens them, leading to depletion of their fat reserves and ultimately, death.
FAQs & Answers
- What is White-nose Syndrome in bats? White-nose Syndrome is a fungal disease caused by Pseudogymnoascus destructans, which affects bats during hibernation, leading to severe population declines.
- How does Pseudogymnoascus destructans affect bats? The fungus infects bats' skin during hibernation, causing irritation that wakes them prematurely, resulting in fat loss and often death.
- Where is White-nose Syndrome most prevalent? White-nose Syndrome has primarily impacted bat populations across North America since it was discovered in 2006.
- Can White-nose Syndrome be prevented or treated? Currently, there are no widely effective treatments, but research is ongoing to find methods to manage and reduce the spread of the fungus.