Effects of host species and environment on the skin microbiome of Plethodontid salamanders

We quantified the distribution of Plethodon salamander skin microbiomes across species and environments in the Central Appalachian Mountains, USA. The amphibian skin microbiome is recognized for its role in defense against pathogens, including the deadly fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). Yet, we have little understanding of evolutionary and ecological processes that structure these communities, especially for salamanders and closely related species. Quantifying salamander skin microbiome structure contributes to our understanding of how host-associated bacteria are distributed across the landscape, among host species, and their putative relationship with disease.