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Call to strengthen biosecurity to save amphibians
Chytridiomycosis
has led to the decline of at least 501 amphibian species in the past 50 years.
Fungal disease threatens species across the globe

Scientists are calling for improved biosecurity and wildlife trade regulation to further prevent mass amphibian extinctions.

The call comes after a study published in Science found the fungal disease chytridiomycosis has caused death and species extinction on a global scale.

Chytridiomycosis eats away at the skin of amphibians and is present in more than 60 countries. The worst affected parts of the world are Australia, Central America and South America.

In the study, researchers show how the disease has led to the decline of at least 501 amphibian species in the past 50 years, including 90 presumed extinctions.

In Australia, researchers found that the disease has led to the decline of more than 40 frog species in the past 30 years, of which seven species had become extinct.

Lead researcher of the study Dr Ben Scheele said that globalisation and the wildlife trade are the main causes of the pandemic and were allowing its spread to continue.

"Humans are moving plants and animals around the world at an increasingly rapid rate, introducing pathogens into new areas,” he said. "We've got to do everything possible to stop future pandemics, by having better control over wildlife trade around the world."

Dr Scheele added that many species are still at high risk of extinction over the next 10-20 years from chytridiomycosis due to ongoing declines.

"Knowing what species are at risk can help target future research to develop conservation actions to prevent extinctions."

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.