New viruses 'killing amphibians' in Spain

[cronus]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-29649273

New viruses 'killing amphibians' in Spain

A deadly new disease has emerged that is wiping out amphibians, scientists report.

A number of viruses have been found in northern Spain that are killing frog, toad and newt species. Infected animals can suffer from ulcers on their skin and die from internal bleeding.

Researchers fear the strains, which belong to the Ranavirus group, have already spread to other countries.

The study is published in the journal Current Biology.

Lead author Dr Stephen Price, from University College London, said: "Until the outbreaks, we didn't really know about this lineage of virus.

"But since these die-offs began, we've started to see them elsewhere - in China in giant salamanders, and it looks like they are emerging in places like France and the Netherlands as well."

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[PsychoSerenity]

Frog Ebola! Watch out JimC!

[mistermack]

Frog Ebola! Watch out JimC!

It's ''French'' Ebola. No need to get all racist.

Maybe this is the answer to the Cane Toad.

I somehow doubt it though. But some fool is sure to try it.

[Sean Hayden]

[JimC]