U.S. Geological Survey
Florida Integrated Science Center

Amphibian Field Research
Preventing the Spread of Disease Among Populations

Prepared by: Marian L. Griffey, FISC

A Word of Caution: Biosecurity

Concern about disease and toxic contamination as causes of amphibian declines has increased considerably in recent years. A corollary of this concern is the need for field workers to avoid becoming vectors for transmitting disease organisms or toxic chemicals among study sites. The Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force (DAPTF) has developed a standard protocol for use by anyone conducting fieldwork at amphibian breeding sites or in other aquatic habitats. These procedures will be used for all routine surveys, but more stringent measures will be necessary in areas with known disease problems.

BIOSECURITY PROTOCOL

Protective Wear & Equipment
Disinfecting & Sanitizing Methods

SOLUTION FORMULAS

ADDITIONAL PRECAUTIONS

 1. Avoid contact between used and unused protective wear and equipment.
 2. House specimens separately.
 3. Avoid contact between gloved hands and face, especially the area of the nose.
 4. DO NOT urinate in or near ponds and streams.
 5. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, or use a sanitary wipe, after urinating.
 6. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, or use a sanitary wipe, after handling specimens known
     or suspected of being diseased or contaminated.
 7. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, or use a sanitary wipe, after leaving each site.