There’s a fungus among us

Many frogs are dying all over the world because of a fungus and, until now, scientists were baffled by it.  Recently, some Australian biologists discovered how it’s killing the frogs.

Frogs actually breathe through their skin.  They also absorb water through their skin.  When the fungus infects a frog’s skin, it interferes with the frog’s ability to regulate electrolytes.  Electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium and chloride, are essential for the body to function.  By blocking the electrolytes, the fungus can cause the frog’s heart to stop.

The fungus is spreading, and climate change is helping it.  That’s bad for the frogs and it’s bad for us because frogs play very important roles in our environment.

Read more in USA Today.