Global distribution of two fungal pathogens threatening endangered sea turtles.

Nascent fungal infections are currently considered as one of the main threats for biodiversity and ecosystem health, and have driven several animal species into critical risk of extinction. Sea turtlesare one of the most endangered groups of animals and only seven species have survived to date. Here, we described two pathogenic species, i.e., Fusariumfalciforme and Fusariumkeratoplasticum, that are globally distributed in major turtle nesting areas for six sea turtlespecies and that are implicated in low hatch success. These two fungi possess key biological features that are similar to emerging pathogens leading to host extinction, e.g., high virulence, and a broad host range style of life. Their optimal growth temperature overlap with the optimal incubation temperature for eggs, and they are able to kill up to 90% of the embryos. Environmental forcing, e.g., tidal inundation and clay/silt content of nests, were correlated to disease development. Thus, these Fusariumspecies constitute a major threat to sea turtlenests, especially to those experiencing environmental stressors. These findings have serious implications for the survival of endangered sea turtlepopulations and the success of conservation programs worldwide.