2011 International Ranavirus symposium

Abstract

This article summarizes the state of Ranavirus knowledge, ongoing research, and future activities. Ranaviruses are large dsDNA viruses in the family Iridoviridae. They were originally detected in frogs (hence the name of the genus, Ranavirus) but are now known to infect and cause disease in fish and reptiles as well as in amphibians. Ranaviruses have been associated with numerous die-offs in amphibian populations and have also been increasingly found in fish and reptiles in recent years. Their role in amphibian declines and as emerging pathogens has led to increased awareness of the importance of these pathogens in conservation and ectothermic vertebrate medicine. Although more research is now being carried out on these viruses, many researchers have realized a need for better communication and contact among the scientific community, including herpetologists, virologists, and veterinarians, to help fully understand these viruses.

Citation

Marschang, Rachel E.; Miller, Debra. 2011. 2011 International Ranavirus symposium. Journal of Herpetological Medicine and Surgery. 21(1): 1-2.