Data from: Spread of amphibian chytrid fungus across lowland populations of Túngara frogs in Panamá

Chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium
dendrobatidis (Bd), is an emergent infectious disease partially
responsible for worldwide amphibian population declines. The spread of Bd
along highland habitats ( > 500 m a.s.l.) of Costa Rica and Panamá
is well documented and has been linked to amphibian population collapses.
In contrast, data are scarce on the prevalence and dispersal of Bd in
lowland habitats where amphibians may be infected but asymptomatic. Here
we describe the spread (2009 to 2014) of Bd across lowland habitats east
of the Panamá Canal (< 500 m a.s.l.) with a focus on the túngara
frog (Physalaemus [Engystomops] pustulosus), one of the most common and
abundant frog species in this region. Highland populations in western
Panamá were already infected with Bd at the start of the study, which was
congruent with previous studies indicating that Bd is enzootic in this
region. In central Panamá, we collected the first positive samples in
2010, and by 2014 we detected Bd from remote sites in eastern Panamá
(Darién National Park). We discuss the importance of studying Bd in
lowland species, which may serve as potential reservoirs and dispersers of
Bd to highland species that are more susceptible to chytridiomycosis.