You may not have heard of this ‘panzootic,’ a pandemic ravaging the animal kingdom. Over the last four decades, Chytridiomycosis, popularly known as ‘chytrid’, has decimated global frog populations, driving over 500 species towards decline and causing 90 extinctions, making it the most lethal known animal disease. Chytrid, an amphibian fungal disease originating in Asia, […]
Tag: frogs
New Species of Barred Frog Discovered in Australia
Mixophyes is a genus of large ground-dwelling frogs from eastern Australia and New Guinea. They are commonly known as barred river frogs or barred frogs due to the distinctive dark cross-bars on their arms and legs, and their association with flowing streams. “At present, Mixophyes comprises seven species from eastern Australia and a single southern […]
How Animals Evolved with Bright Colors without Being Eaten
For years, evolutionary biologists have been puzzled by the paradox of aposematism. This is the evolutionary process that sees animals, like frogs, develop bright colors to warn potential predators that eating them will make them sick or even kill them. It seems counterintuitive that such colors could evolve, as animals that stand out are usually […]
Frog Populations Are Declining Worldwide With Alarming Number Of Extinctions In Past Two Decades
Frogs have been on Earth for millions of years, but many are now listed as endangered. The last two decades have taken quite a toll on the amphibians. AmphibiaWeb states, “nearly 168 species are believed to have gone extinct and at least 2,469 (43%) more have populations that are declining.” They are an important part […]
Study: Glassfrogs Hide Red Blood Cells in Their Liver to Achieve Transparency
Transparency in animals is a complex form of camouflage involving mechanisms that reduce the scattering and absorption of light throughout the organism. Many species have evolved transparency, but it is particularly challenging for vertebrates because red blood cells attenuate light. In a new study, researchers from Duke University and elsewhere found that glassfrogs are able […]
4 Things About Red-Eared Slider Turtles You Likely Haven’t Heard Of
There are over two hundred different species of sliders, and most of them reside in the Americas. These turtles are recognizably different from one another, with some having red or orange markings on their shells and heads. In this blog post, we will explore four things you likely haven’t heard of about red-eared sliders. From […]
Leopards, sharks and glass frogs win new protections, while hippos face tragic losses
A couple of weeks ago, I told you about our work at the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora—known as CITES. This conference is so important because it shapes how wild animals in trade are treated across the globe and can curb commercial […]
9 Reasons Why You Should Consider Getting a Reptile as a Pet
Do you want a pet that is low-maintenance, interesting, and cute? If so, then you should consider getting a reptile! Reptiles make great pets for people of all ages, and there are many different types to choose from. Here are nine reasons why you should consider getting a reptile as a pet, including tips on […]