Ultraviolet radiation and Vitamin D(3) in amphibian health, behaviour, diet and conservation. Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part A, Molecular & integrative physiology [Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol] Journal article

Title	Ultraviolet radiation and Vitamin D(3) in amphibian health, behaviour, diet and conservation.
Author(s)	Antwis RE, Browne RK
Institution	Royal Zoological Society of Antwerp. Koningin Astriplein 26, Antwerp, Belgium, 2018.
Source	Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2009 Jun 22.
Abstract	Amphibians are currently suffering a period of mass extinction. In light of these recent population declines and extinctions there is an urgency to establish viable ex situ populations and also find the causes of in situ declines. The role of ultraviolet radiation and Vitamin D(3) in amphibian health directly influences both ex situ and in situ populations. Vitamin D(3) can be photosynthesised endogenously via UV-B radiation (UV-B), or acquired through the diet, and then metabolised to calcitriol the biologically active hormonal form. Although, there is a lack of literature concerning calcitriol synthesis and requirements in amphibians, amphibians are likely to have similar requirements to other vertebrates due to the phylogenetically conservative nature of calcitriol biosynthesis. Deficiencies in calcitriol in amphibians may result in nutritional metabolic bone disease (NMBD) and compromised reproduction and immunity. However, excesses of UV-B have also proven detrimental across all three life stages of amphibians. Here we review the role and necessity of UV-B and calcitriol in amphibians, with reference to other vertebrates. We also suggest research deficiencies in this under-represented scientific field that may provide critical information for maintaining healthy and fecund populations of amphibians in ex situ and in situ populations.
Language	ENG
Pub Type(s)	JOURNAL ARTICLE
PubMed ID	19555772

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