Fungus Threatens Bat Populations in Northern Canada

## Fungus Spreads to Northern Canada A recent discovery in the Northwest Territories has confirmed the presence of white-nose syndrome, a lethal disease caused by the fungus *Pseudogymnoascus destructans* (Pd), in northern Canada. The fungus has been spreading west across North America for 20 years, killing more than 6.7 million bats. It attacks the face, wings, and arms of hibernating bats, causing them to stir from rest and eventually die from dehydration or starvation. ## Impact on Bat Populations The spread of white-nose syndrome to northern Canada has raised urgent questions about its potential impact on bat populations in the region. The fungus has already been detected in a cave in Fort McKay, Alberta, nearly 200 miles south of the current location. Biologists are concerned that the fungus could have a devastating effect on bat populations, particularly on smaller species such as the little brown and northern long-eared myotis bats. ## Research Efforts Researchers led by Jesika Reimer and Joanna Wilson have been studying the spread of white-nose syndrome in the region. They have been capturing bats outside the cave entrance using lightweight mist nets and documenting the presence of the fungus. They have also used a UV light to scan for orange fluorescence on the wings of bats, which indicates the presence of Pd. Their research has revealed unusual behaviors in infected bats, including flying outside the cave in daylight. ## Potential Treatment Options Researchers are exploring potential treatment options for white-nose syndrome, including the use of a probiotic cocktail developed by scientists at McMaster University. The probiotic is thought to improve the bats' resilience to Pd infection by slowing its growth. Early field trials in British Columbia and Washington have yielded promising results, with bats that received the probiotic showing reduced levels of Pd. ## Complicating Factors The spread of white-nose syndrome is complicated by other factors, including wildfires. Large wildfires in 2023 torched the trees surrounding the caves near Fort Smith, forcing bats to fly longer distances to find food and mates. Researchers are also wondering if wildfires could have played a role in the rate at which the fungus spread, forcing bats from the Northwest Territories to move south and mix with Pd-infected bats. ## Uncertainty and Next Steps There are more questions than answers about the spread of white-nose syndrome in northern Canada. Biologists will need to continue studying the fungus and its impact on bat populations to determine the best course of action. For now, researchers are cautiously optimistic that the probiotic cocktail could provide a treatment option for infected bats. However, further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of this treatment and to determine the best way to mitigate the impact of white-nose syndrome on bat populations in the region.