Predictive Monitoring
Scientists use climate data to predict where Bd will spread next and use this data to collect baseline data. Recording amphibian populations, swabbing skins for Infections, and tracking healthy ecosystems. This early warning system helps target defences before the disaster occurs.
Captive Breeding
For species such as Panama's old golden frog, which are extinct in the wild, captive breeding is their only hope. The biosecure labs store thousands of frogs, carefully paired to protect genetic diversity. This is done, so one day the amphibians can be released back into Bd-resistant habitats.
Storing Amphibians' DNA
Another method to preserve endangered amphibian species is through gene banking. This facility can store sperm, eggs, and even tissue samples which are preserved in liquid nitrogen, allowing scientists to safeguard genetic information for future use.
Why Store Amphibian DNA?
- Rescuing Extinct Species: If a species goes extinct in the wild, preserved genetic material could one day be used to resurrect it through cloning or assisted reproduction technologies.
- Safeguarding Biodiversity: Gene banks capture the genetic diversity of a species. This diversity is key to resilience against disease, environmental changes, and future breeding efforts.
- Research and Discovery: Stored samples allow scientists to study amphibian genetics over time, supporting research on adaptation, evolution, and resilience.
Real-World Examples
- Amphibian Ark: A global initiative collecting and banking amphibian sperm and eggs to preserve threatened species.
- Frozen Zoo Projects: Facilities like San Diego Zoo's Frozen Zoo store amphibian DNA alongside other endangered animals for potential future revival and genetic studies.
Learning from Survivors
From the question, "Why do some amphibians resist Bd?" the surviving amphibians of Bd are examined. This helps the scientists figure out which amphibians are resistant to Bd, like bull frogs that host protective skin bacteria. Now scientists are testing 'probiotic baths' to armour vulnerable frogs with these microbes.
What Are We Learning from Amphibians?
By studying them, scientists are uncovering critical insights across several fields:
Key Learnings from Amphibians
- Early Disease Detection: Amphibians are often the first to show signs of environmental stress and disease outbreaks, such as chytridiomycosis.
- Evolutionary History: With their unique life cycles and ancient lineages, amphibians help trace evolutionary paths of vertebrates.
- Ecosystem Health: Amphibians act as ecological middlemen, eating insects and being eaten by larger predators, therefore, supporting food web stability and nutrient cycling.
- Biomedical Potential: Compounds from amphibian skin are being studied for antibiotic, antifungal, and even painkilling properties, offering hope for future drug development.
What You Can Do
- Donate to organizations that run captive breeding and research programs
- Join a local campaign that stops the amphibian pet trade and supports amphibian conservation projects