Save the frogs!

Many of you may know that amphibian species have been in major decline lately, especially in the Americas. In fact, somewhere near 120 species of frogs have become extinct since 1980. But not all of you may be aware that a major cause of the massive extinctions of these species is the fairly recent outbreak of Chytrid fungus, which can often result in fatality. I recently attended a seminar to learn about the mechanisms of Chytrid infection and a conservation project that is currently being employed to help save these awesome little guys. It seems that the fungus spreads thru water and frog-to-frog contact, and  it can result in the loss of around 50% of the amphibian species in any population it reaches. This is obviously terrible news, since a loss in biodiversity results in a weakened ability for the frogs to overcome future threats.
Right now the fungus has spread from areas north of Mexico, all the way thru Central America, and is now centered in Panama. But not all is lost... The Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, along with collaborators are currently working on capturing frogs before the fungus arrives, and keeping them in captivity until a solution (potentially in the form of a topical anti-Chytrid "vaccine") is possible. Then, the species may be reintroduced and saved! If you're interested in this awesome project check out their facebook page: PARCP.
Here are some cool pictures and information about the frogs they are trying to save:

 Centrolene ilex: A "glass frog" has a translucent belly and lives in bushes and shrubs. These frogs lay eggs on leaves overhanging streams, and then their larvae develop in the streams. There are 3 Glass frogs the organization is trying to save.

Hemiphractus fasciatus: This frog species is one of two Marsupial frogs listed for conservation by the group. Although they may look strange, their reproductive habits are even more unusual! The eggs are placed on the mother's back, and she carries them with her throughout the babies' entire development from embryo to froglet. Talk about motherly love!

Dendrobates fulguritus: One of Celtral America's renowned Poison Dart frogs. Poison dart frogs are especially threatened because they spend most of their time on the land surrounding the streams where Chytrid can be transmitted. These species produce toxins which have been used by natives in the creation of poison blowgun darts.

Hylomantis lemur: This frog is one of about 800 species of tree-living frogs. They are very well adapted to tree-climbing and have sticky toes! Some tree frogs lay their eggs on trees overhanging water and the tadpoles will fall into the water when they hatch, while others lay their eggs in holes of the tree which collect water. 3 Tree frogs are listed for conservation by the Panama Amphibian Rescue, along with several other species. Check them all out! http://amphibianrescue.org/?page_id=97