roscopy, and molecular biology. Expertise in the group has resulted in the isolation of previously unknown disease causing agents in Queensland. The objective of the current project is to find "exotic, infectious microbial" agents which may spread throughout cane toad populations in Australia and decrease their numbers. The project is also assessing the effects of these agents on adult, metamorphic, and juvenile life stages of the toad, since it is likely that different life stages have differing weaknesses.Further research is being undertaken by CSIRO. Giant toads are often transported in shipments of fruit and other commodities. Until effective control methods are available, quarantine checks and the destruction of any accidental releases of toads are essential to reduce their rate of spread. Challenge experiments have commenced to evaluate the effects of viruses on toads. These experiments are conducted under maximum "microbiological security" to ensure that escape of the viruses cannot occur. Toads are maintained in "laminar flow" cabinets, within sealed rooms. The air pressure of the rooms is lower than atmospheric pressure; thus ensuring all air movement is into the room. Air leaving the room is double filtered to eliminate the "smallest viral particle from escaping." Water from the room is heated to kill any infectious agents. Entrance to the room is through an air-lock and exit of personnel from the room requires a full three minute shower. In association with the challenge experiments is a spectrum of "microbiological, serological, and molecular studies to characterize and compare the agents under investigation, to establish information on the host's resistance to infection, and to gather information related to similar agents in toads and other amphibian populations." Should an agent be found which offers the potential for control of the toad, an extensive series of subsequent studies is planned. To achieve the obje...
