Winter ‘sauna’ helps frogs fight off fungal disease.

A recent study conducted by researchers at Macquarie University in Sydney has found that a "frog sauna" can help the green and golden bell frog fight off a deadly fungal infection called chytridiomycosis. The disease has caused the decline of nearly 100 species of frogs, toads, and salamanders worldwide. By providing the infected frogs with a heated shelter, the researchers discovered that the amount of chytrid fungus on their skin was significantly lower compared to a control group. The warmer temperature not only inhibits the growth of the fungus but also activates the frogs' immune system, making them more resistant to future infections. The researchers believe that this inexpensive shelter could be beneficial for other amphibians threatened by chytridiomycosis as well. [Extracted from the article]