Gopher tortoises are found throughout Florida and the Southeast and are affected by various diseases, including upper respiratory tract disease. A new story from the University of Florida this summer revealed the discovery of yet another emerging disease affecting gopher tortoise — one associated with high mortality in the long-lived species. On this show, Dr. Jim Wellehan, a professor of zoological medicine with expertise in microbiology, will discuss the significance of his team’s recent findings, what they mean for the species and the people caring for them, and possible relationships between this new disease and other emerging diseases affecting reptiles.