New fungus detected in EU salamanders

An emerging pathogenic fungus, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal), has been detected in different species A subdivision of the genus, a species is a group of closely related and similar-looking organisms; for example, in the case of Homo sapiens (humans), the second part of the name (sapiens) represents the species. of salamanders across the EU, both kept as pets and in the wild.

Cases have been reported in Belgium, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Bsal has been shown to cause high mortality in some salamander species.

In the scientific opinion Opinions include risk assessments on general scientific issues, evaluations of an application for the authorisation of a product, substance or claim, or an evaluation of a risk assessment. published today EFSA experts assessed the risk of establishment and spread of this fungus.

• Risk of survival, establishment and spread of Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) in the EU