Emerging Diseases and their Threat to Endangered Species: A Global Perspective

Grażyna Łaska^*
*Correspondence: Grażyna Łaska, Department of Environmental Management, Bialystok University of Technology, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland, Email:

Introduction

Emerging diseases pose a significant threat to global biodiversity, particularly to endangered species. This article explores the impact of emerging diseases on endangered species, highlighting key case studies, underlying factors driving disease emergence and the global implications for conservation. It also discusses strategies for mitigating these threats through a combination of surveillance, habitat protection and international cooperation. The rapid emergence of new diseases has become a major concern for global health, but the impact extends beyond human populations. Emerging diseases are increasingly threatening wildlife, with particularly devastating effects on endangered species. These species, already facing pressures from habitat loss, climate change and poaching, are now confronted with the added challenge of disease outbreaks that can decimate their populations. This article examines the threat posed by emerging diseases to endangered species, drawing on global case studies and discussing the broader implications for conservation efforts. Emerging Infectious Diseases (EIDs) are defined as diseases that have recently increased in incidence or geographic range or are caused by newly evolved pathogens. Wildlife species, especially those that are endangered, are particularly vulnerable to EIDs due to their small population sizes, limited genetic diversity and often fragmented habitats. The introduction of a new pathogen into a naïve population can lead to significant mortality and, in some cases, drive species closer to extinction [1].

One of the well-documented examples of an emerging disease devastating endangered species is chytridiomycosis, a fungal infection caused by Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. First identified in the 1990s, Bd has since been implicated in the decline or extinction of over 200 amphibian species globally. The disease affects the skin of amphibians, disrupting their ability to regulate water and electrolytes, leading to cardiac arrest. Amphibians in the tropics and subtropics, including many endangered species, have been particularly hard hit, with some populations declining by over 90% within a few years of Bd introduction. The Tasmanian devil, the largest carnivorous marsupial in the world, has experienced a dramatic population decline due to a unique form of cancer known as Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD). First observed in the mid-1990s, DFTD is a transmissible cancer that spreads through biting, a common behaviour among Tasmanian devils. The disease causes large facial tumours that interfere with feeding, leading to death by starvation. Since its discovery, DFTD has wiped out approximately 80% of the wild Tasmanian devil population, pushing the species to the brink of extinction. White-nose syndrome, caused by the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructors, is another emerging disease with severe impacts on endangered species. Discovered in North America in 2006, the disease affects hibernating bats, causing them to wake frequently and deplete their fat reserves, leading to death [2].

Description

The disease has decimated bat populations across the continent, with some species, such as the northern long-eared bat, experiencing declines of over 90%. The loss of bats, which play crucial roles in ecosystems as pollinators and insect controllers, has significant ecological implications. Several factors contribute to the emergence of diseases in wildlife, particularly in endangered species. Habitat destruction and fragmentation are primary drivers of disease emergence in wildlife. As natural habitats are destroyed or altered, species are forced into closer contact with humans and domestic animals, increasing the risk of pathogen transmission. Fragmented habitats can also lead to isolated populations with reduced genetic diversity, making them more susceptible to disease outbreaks. Climate change is altering the distribution and behaviour of many species, creating new opportunities for pathogens to spread. Warmer temperatures can expand the range of disease vectors, such as mosquitoes and ticks, introducing diseases to areas where they were previously absent. Additionally, climate change can stress wildlife populations, making them more vulnerable to infections. The global trade in wildlife and wildlife products is another significant factor in the spread of emerging diseases. The movement of animals and animal products across borders can introduce pathogens to new regions, with potentially devastating effects on native species. Wildlife trafficking, in particular, poses a severe threat to endangered species, as it often involves the transport of animals under poor conditions, increasing the risk of disease transmission [3].

In addition to ecological impacts, the emergence of diseases in wildlife can have economic consequences. The loss of species that contribute to industries such as tourism and agriculture can result in significant financial losses. Moreover, diseases that jump from wildlife to humans, such as COVID-19, can lead to global health crises with severe economic impacts. Early detection of emerging diseases is crucial for preventing outbreaks and mitigating their impact. This requires robust surveillance systems that monitor wildlife populations for signs of disease. Collaborative efforts between governments, non-governmental organizations and research institutions are essential for effective monitoring and response. Protecting and restoring natural habitats is a key strategy for reducing the risk of disease emergence. Intact ecosystems support healthy wildlife populations and reduce the likelihood of contact between wildlife and humans. Conservation efforts should focus on preserving large, connected habitats and restoring degraded areas to improve ecosystem resilience. Emerging diseases are a global challenge that requires international cooperation. Countries must work together to share information, resources and expertise to combat the spread of diseases. This includes enforcing regulations on wildlife trade and trafficking, as well as supporting global initiatives to protect biodiversity [4,5].

Conclusion

Emerging diseases pose a significant threat to endangered species, exacerbating the challenges they already face. The factors driving disease emergence, such as habitat loss, climate change and global trade, are complex and interconnected, requiring a coordinated global response. By investing in surveillance, habitat protection and international cooperation, we can mitigate the threat of emerging diseases and safeguard the future of endangered species. The survival of these species is not only crucial for biodiversity but also for the health and stability of ecosystems worldwide. The emergence of diseases in endangered species has far-reaching implications for global conservation efforts. The loss of species due to disease not only reduces biodiversity but also disrupts ecosystems and the services they provide. The extinction of a species can have cascading effects, leading to the decline of other species and the degradation of habitats.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

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