An investigation of climatic and geographic factors on the growth and spread of chytrid fungus on amphibian populations in Australia

Two statistical tests were applied to data for 56 amphibian habitats in Australia to determine whether altitude, temperature, or rainfall are statistically significant factors in the presence of chytrid fungus on amphibian populations. The data analysis indicates that the geographic range of chytrid fungus is related to temperature. In particular, chytrid fungus is limited by temperature and is less likely to occur at warmer sites. The data analysis does not indicate a significant relationship between chytrid fungus and altitude or rainfall. Additionally, a mathematical model is formulated to study the possible interaction between chytrid fungus and amphibian populations.