These facts, on top of the fact that Bd can also infect salamanders and frogs in all stages of life result in the pathogen persisting in an environment long enough to continually infect new frogs (9,11). Tadpoles can be infected on their mouth parts (which is the only location of keratinized skin) and frogs post-metamorphosis can be infected almost anywhere (but primarily on the toes).
The presence of Bd in salamanders and frogs at all life stages contributes to the pathogen's persistence long enough to infect new frogs (9,11). Tadpoles can be infected on their mouth parts (the only location with keratinized skin) and adult frogs post-metamorphosis are frequently infected almost anywhere, primarily on their toes.