Pseudogymnoascus destructans in bats (White-nose syndrome) (Infection with)

Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), formerly named Geomyces destructans , is the causative agent of White-nose syndrome (WNS), a fungal disease of hibernating bats. White fungal growth is seen on the muzzles, ears, and wings of infected bats. Infection causes an increase in the utilisation of fat stores as well as hyperkalemia and a respiratory acidosis (accumulation of CO 2 in the blood). It is believed that these physiologic disturbances cause an increased frequency of arousal from torpor to allow for compensatory physiologic mechanisms; this simultaneously exacerbates energy requirements and dehydration status and contributes to mortality.