Amphibians, with their unique reliance on skin for respiration and ion regulation, are severely threatened by climate change.
Rollins-Smith & Le Sage (2023) compiled research on heat-stress and desiccation to better understand future risks.
amphibiaweb.org
Rollins-Smith & Le Sage (2023) compiled research on heat-stress and desiccation to better understand future risks.
amphibiaweb.org
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This week we are celebrating the Global Women in Herpetology Project, which highlights female scientists worldwide.
Their captivating book showcases 50 inspiring women, their fieldwork, challenges, and amphibians & reptiles.
womeninherpetology.com
amphibiaweb.org
Their captivating book showcases 50 inspiring women, their fieldwork, challenges, and amphibians & reptiles.
womeninherpetology.com
amphibiaweb.org
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IVF for frogs? 💉🧫 🐸
Researchers are looking into repopulating declining species using embryos from frozen sperm and eggs.
However, Poo et al. 2022 found IVF frogs smaller than their wild counterparts indicating more research is needed in this area!
amphibiaweb.org
Researchers are looking into repopulating declining species using embryos from frozen sperm and eggs.
However, Poo et al. 2022 found IVF frogs smaller than their wild counterparts indicating more research is needed in this area!
amphibiaweb.org
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Communication is key when raising kids right? 👨👨👦! 🐸?
Many poison dart frogs have bi-parental care, including multiple types of acoustic communication.
Moss, Tumulty, and Fischer (2023) analyzed the evolution of calls dad makes to tell mom to feed baby!
amphibiaweb.org/index.html
Many poison dart frogs have bi-parental care, including multiple types of acoustic communication.
Moss, Tumulty, and Fischer (2023) analyzed the evolution of calls dad makes to tell mom to feed baby!
amphibiaweb.org/index.html
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Many amphibians can adjust hatching times in response to external factors.
For terrestrial eggs, flooding can cause embryos to hatch early.
Poo et al studied this plasticity in rhacophorid tree frogs in Thailand.
amphibiaweb.org
For terrestrial eggs, flooding can cause embryos to hatch early.
Poo et al studied this plasticity in rhacophorid tree frogs in Thailand.
amphibiaweb.org
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Research in vitro? 🧪 🐸 🧫
Cultured cell lines exist for 23 diverse amphibian species.
Douglas (2023) reviews and encourages use of this amazing resource to further study host-pathogen interactions in declining species.
amphibiaweb.org
Cultured cell lines exist for 23 diverse amphibian species.
Douglas (2023) reviews and encourages use of this amazing resource to further study host-pathogen interactions in declining species.
amphibiaweb.org
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Brilliantly colored Peruvian Mimic Poison Frog have extensive biparental care.
Tadpoles feed on unfertilized eggs rather than the usual tadpole diet of detritus.
Weinfurther et al. (2023) found evidence of unique gut microbiome in the egg feeding tads.
amphibiaweb.org
Tadpoles feed on unfertilized eggs rather than the usual tadpole diet of detritus.
Weinfurther et al. (2023) found evidence of unique gut microbiome in the egg feeding tads.
amphibiaweb.org
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Frog cologne and perfume? 🐸
Chemical signals are likely used during mating in some frogs.
Brunetti et al. (2023) found that some of the odors were coming from symbiotic microbial communities found on the skin of Burmeister's Treefrog.
amphibiaweb.org
Chemical signals are likely used during mating in some frogs.
Brunetti et al. (2023) found that some of the odors were coming from symbiotic microbial communities found on the skin of Burmeister's Treefrog.
amphibiaweb.org
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Rhacophorid tree frogs make up 6% of all anurans. They inhabit a wide range of climates and have evolved multiple modes of reproduction.
Ellepola et al (2022) looked into how and why these frogs are so evolutionarily successful.
amphibiaweb.org
Ellepola et al (2022) looked into how and why these frogs are so evolutionarily successful.
amphibiaweb.org
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👅 🐸
Tadpoles and adult frogs have vastly different diets - herbivorous to carnivorous.
Do their tastes change?
Possibly!
Hao et al 2023 found bullfrog adults and larvae express different genes in their taste receptors.
amphibiaweb.org
Tadpoles and adult frogs have vastly different diets - herbivorous to carnivorous.
Do their tastes change?
Possibly!
Hao et al 2023 found bullfrog adults and larvae express different genes in their taste receptors.
amphibiaweb.org
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Looking to move?
Amphibians are generally small and dry out easily, but they often move more than expected.
Davis et al 2023 used extensive modeling and 6 years of mark recapture data to understand how and when salamanders move between ponds.
amphibiaweb.org
Amphibians are generally small and dry out easily, but they often move more than expected.
Davis et al 2023 used extensive modeling and 6 years of mark recapture data to understand how and when salamanders move between ponds.
amphibiaweb.org
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Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is a fungal pathogen responsible for global amphibian decline.
With museum collections, Ghose et al. (2023), reconstructed the historical spread of Bd across Africa.
amphibiaweb.org
With museum collections, Ghose et al. (2023), reconstructed the historical spread of Bd across Africa.
amphibiaweb.org
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Did you know?
Over 7% of global frog species, are found in 0.7% of the world's land area - on the island of New Guinea.
Oliver et al. (2022) documented over 500 species and suggested there may be over 200 more to be scientifically described.
amphibiaweb.org
Over 7% of global frog species, are found in 0.7% of the world's land area - on the island of New Guinea.
Oliver et al. (2022) documented over 500 species and suggested there may be over 200 more to be scientifically described.
amphibiaweb.org
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Brazil is a hotspot for amphibian diversity and decline.
Some species are recovering but very slowly.
Using past research and museum collections Toledo et al. (2023) documented the recent decline and recovery across species.
amphibiaweb.org
Some species are recovering but very slowly.
Using past research and museum collections Toledo et al. (2023) documented the recent decline and recovery across species.
amphibiaweb.org
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Glass frogs camouflage themselve by being nearly transparent when sleeping.
Some organs can still be seen, so where is their blood?
Taboada et al 2022 found the 89% of the blood cells hiding in the liver, making the frog as transparent as possible.
amphibiaweb.org
Some organs can still be seen, so where is their blood?
Taboada et al 2022 found the 89% of the blood cells hiding in the liver, making the frog as transparent as possible.
amphibiaweb.org
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Live birth in caecilians🪱
Frogs skipping the tadpole stage🐸
Fully reproductive salamanders in larval form🦎👶
Liedtke el al (2022) study the wild variety of reproductive modes in amphibians, and make beautiful figures about it.
amphibiaweb.org
Frogs skipping the tadpole stage🐸
Fully reproductive salamanders in larval form🦎👶
Liedtke el al (2022) study the wild variety of reproductive modes in amphibians, and make beautiful figures about it.
amphibiaweb.org
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Gulp 🐸 👅
Frog tongues are iconic, grabbing food from afar.
Then what? Where does that long tongue go? What does it do?
Keeffe et al. (2022) answered all these questions with amazing xray video.
Check it out at amphibiaweb.org
Frog tongues are iconic, grabbing food from afar.
Then what? Where does that long tongue go? What does it do?
Keeffe et al. (2022) answered all these questions with amazing xray video.
Check it out at amphibiaweb.org
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Poison dart frogs are known for their parental care. Many lay infertile eggs for tadpoles to eat.
Villanueva et al. (2022) found some species pass on toxin defenses to their young through the eggs, but other species do not.
amphibiaweb.org
Villanueva et al. (2022) found some species pass on toxin defenses to their young through the eggs, but other species do not.
amphibiaweb.org
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Three Asian-endemic newt species show similar genetic patterns across the transitional mosaic landscape of southern China. (Yuan et al 2022)
These findings can help management plans for species at risk due to pet trade and habitat loss.
amphibiaweb.org
These findings can help management plans for species at risk due to pet trade and habitat loss.
amphibiaweb.org
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City life 🐸 frog style
Life history traits appear to shift in human-modified habitats.
Cayuela 2022 found shorter adult lifespan but more tadpoles making it to adults in anthropogenic habitats.
amphibiaweb.org
Life history traits appear to shift in human-modified habitats.
Cayuela 2022 found shorter adult lifespan but more tadpoles making it to adults in anthropogenic habitats.
amphibiaweb.org
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Within a biological reserve, Serrano-Rojas (2022) found higher amphibian diversity in regenerating forest and forest used by Indigenous communities than in immigrant agricultural land.
amphibiaweb.org
amphibiaweb.org
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Pilliod and colleges conducted a massive mark-recapture study on the Columbia Spotted Frog.
They marked almost 16k individuals over 16 years to understand how climate affects population survival.
amphibiaweb.org
They marked almost 16k individuals over 16 years to understand how climate affects population survival.
amphibiaweb.org
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Body size is an important life history trait, affected by environmental and evolutionary factors.
In the genus Pristimantis Acevedo (2022) found body size to correlate with climatic variables.
amphibiaweb.org
In the genus Pristimantis Acevedo (2022) found body size to correlate with climatic variables.
amphibiaweb.org
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It's the time of year to cozy with your special someone. When do frogs find a mate?
With calling data collected by the public Thomson et al 2022 found day of the year & temperature to be more correlated with breeding than rainfall.
amphibiaweb.org
With calling data collected by the public Thomson et al 2022 found day of the year & temperature to be more correlated with breeding than rainfall.
amphibiaweb.org
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Delete 🫁?
Plethodontids are a family of lungless salamanders.
Lewis 2022 found the embryos begin to develop lungs, and essentially delete them before hatching.
Learn more about the evolution of lung loss at amphibiaweb.org
Plethodontids are a family of lungless salamanders.
Lewis 2022 found the embryos begin to develop lungs, and essentially delete them before hatching.
Learn more about the evolution of lung loss at amphibiaweb.org
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Although most famous in Australia- cane toads have also been introduced in North America.
Mittan-Moreau et al. (2022) look into where the N.Am. populations
originally came from.
amphibiaweb.org
Mittan-Moreau et al. (2022) look into where the N.Am. populations
originally came from.
amphibiaweb.org
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Did you know some salamander species care for their eggs?
Vági et al (2022) used 181 species to understand the evolutionary patterns of parental care, fertilization mode, and terrestrial reproduction.
amphibiaweb.org
Vági et al (2022) used 181 species to understand the evolutionary patterns of parental care, fertilization mode, and terrestrial reproduction.
amphibiaweb.org
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Here's looking at you 👀- frog? salamander? caecilian?
Thomas et al. looked at over 1k amphibian photos to understand the evolution of pupil shape.
They found aquatic and fossorial species have less elongated pupils species! ⦿ vs ⌽
amphibiaweb.org
Thomas et al. looked at over 1k amphibian photos to understand the evolution of pupil shape.
They found aquatic and fossorial species have less elongated pupils species! ⦿ vs ⌽
amphibiaweb.org
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Too many species too little time? Overwhelmed by the 8,511 species in out database?
The aweb team summarized new information gathered in the last 5 years (Womack 2022).
Everything from whole genomes, to climate change, and frog calls.
Check it out! amphibiaweb.org
The aweb team summarized new information gathered in the last 5 years (Womack 2022).
Everything from whole genomes, to climate change, and frog calls.
Check it out! amphibiaweb.org
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Frog spines are relatively short and rigid- enabling their famous jumping abilities.
With 200 species, covering 200 mil yrs of evolution, Adler et al 2022 found vertebral shape correlates to body size and microhabitat(burrowing).
amphibiaweb.org
With 200 species, covering 200 mil yrs of evolution, Adler et al 2022 found vertebral shape correlates to body size and microhabitat(burrowing).
amphibiaweb.org
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With some tweaking, Krieger et al (2022) used a MasSpec Pen to measure skin compounds on a live frog.
This technology allows for non-invasive analysis of frog skin compounds.
Read more at the newly redesigned
amphibiaweb.org
This technology allows for non-invasive analysis of frog skin compounds.
Read more at the newly redesigned
amphibiaweb.org
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Did you know that melanin (dark skin pigment) can protect against radiation?
Burrac and Orizaola (2022) found that Eastern Tree Frogs within the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone are darker than frogs outside the zone.
Read more at amphibiaweb.org
Burrac and Orizaola (2022) found that Eastern Tree Frogs within the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone are darker than frogs outside the zone.
Read more at amphibiaweb.org
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Spadefoot tadpoles are either omnivorous or eat their siblings.
Frogs are carnivorous so scientists assumed some tadpoles start that transition early.
Ledón-Rettig's findings support differential gene expression in tadpoles, not accelerated carnivory.
amphibiaweb.org
Frogs are carnivorous so scientists assumed some tadpoles start that transition early.
Ledón-Rettig's findings support differential gene expression in tadpoles, not accelerated carnivory.
amphibiaweb.org
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Male frogs vocalize to defend territory and attract females.
Passos 2022 found captive male Golden Mantella frogs are more responsive to other captive than to wild males calls.
How does this affect the conservation and reintroduction of the species?
amphibiaweb.org
Passos 2022 found captive male Golden Mantella frogs are more responsive to other captive than to wild males calls.
How does this affect the conservation and reintroduction of the species?
amphibiaweb.org
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Some animals adjust to environmental change more than others(plasticity). In theory this plasticity comes at a cost, but is difficult to study.
Burraco (2022) used Iberian Spadefoot Toads to directly measure the physiological costs of plasticity.
amphibiaweb.org
Burraco (2022) used Iberian Spadefoot Toads to directly measure the physiological costs of plasticity.
amphibiaweb.org
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Invasive species often have lower genetic diversity, despite adapting to new conditions. How?
Lafond 2022 found bullfrogs maintained diversity at important functional loci involved with immunity.
These genes help the frogs combat the fungal disease Bd.
amphibiaweb.org
Lafond 2022 found bullfrogs maintained diversity at important functional loci involved with immunity.
These genes help the frogs combat the fungal disease Bd.
amphibiaweb.org
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Cities, suburban gardens, & other human modified areas are drastically different from frogs’ natural habitats.
Using over 226,000 frog records from across Australia, Liu (2022) found breeding seasons are 3 weeks longer in urban settings.
amphibiaweb.org
Using over 226,000 frog records from across Australia, Liu (2022) found breeding seasons are 3 weeks longer in urban settings.
amphibiaweb.org
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Color changing frogs 🐸 🧡 💚
Wallace's Flying Frog change from bright orange to vivid green as they mature. AND change color in response to stress and light.
Stückler et al. 2022 found juveniles require dietary pigments for these changes.
amphibiaweb.org
Wallace's Flying Frog change from bright orange to vivid green as they mature. AND change color in response to stress and light.
Stückler et al. 2022 found juveniles require dietary pigments for these changes.
amphibiaweb.org
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Sticky hugs?
Antoniazzi et al. (2022)
studied the skin glands of Mueller’s Termite Frog in the context of reproductive behavior.
The males of these Brazilian microhylids have adhesive glands, used during amplexus to stick to the female.
amphibiaweb.org
Antoniazzi et al. (2022)
studied the skin glands of Mueller’s Termite Frog in the context of reproductive behavior.
The males of these Brazilian microhylids have adhesive glands, used during amplexus to stick to the female.
amphibiaweb.org
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Spend the weekend sitting in the dark in your house?
So did the West Virginia Spring Salamander, a species found in only a single cave.
Grant et al 2002 found they are morphologically and genetically distinct from the wide ranging sister species.
amphibiaweb.org
So did the West Virginia Spring Salamander, a species found in only a single cave.
Grant et al 2002 found they are morphologically and genetically distinct from the wide ranging sister species.
amphibiaweb.org
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Leaping into the workweek like...
These pumpkin toadlets (genus Brachycephalus) from Brazil. They jump and hope for the best.
Essner (2022) suspect
the cause of these crash landings is a lack of spatial awareness from underdeveloped inner ears.
amphibiaweb.org
These pumpkin toadlets (genus Brachycephalus) from Brazil. They jump and hope for the best.
Essner (2022) suspect
the cause of these crash landings is a lack of spatial awareness from underdeveloped inner ears.
amphibiaweb.org
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Hot and salty.
Chuang et al. 2022 found lower temperature tolerance and survival rates for tadpoles raised in high salinity.
Their work highlights the importance of considering multiple variables when predicting the effects of future climate change.
amphibiaweb.org
Chuang et al. 2022 found lower temperature tolerance and survival rates for tadpoles raised in high salinity.
Their work highlights the importance of considering multiple variables when predicting the effects of future climate change.
amphibiaweb.org
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Skin deep - amphibian skin secretions can both help and hinder when it comes to the deadly pathogen chytridiomycosis(Bd).
Gass and Voyles (2022) found skin secretions of the Panamanian golden frog actually encouraged growth of Bd
Read more - amphibiaweb.org
Gass and Voyles (2022) found skin secretions of the Panamanian golden frog actually encouraged growth of Bd
Read more - amphibiaweb.org
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Did you know the amount of toxin in newts (𝘛𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢) changes over their lifetime?
Bucciarelli (2022) re-examined the famous evolutionary arms race between Garter snakes (𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘮𝘯𝘰𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘴) and these newts.
Read more - amphibiaweb.org (and in this threat.)
Bucciarelli (2022) re-examined the famous evolutionary arms race between Garter snakes (𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘮𝘯𝘰𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘴) and these newts.
Read more - amphibiaweb.org (and in this threat.)
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What's adorable, arboreal, AND aerial?
The Wandering and Arboreal Salamanders, 𝘈𝘯𝘦𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴 𝘷𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴 and 𝘈. 𝘭𝘶𝘨𝘶𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘴!
Parachuting salamanders! Brown et al 2022 documented controlled aerial descent in both species.
Video at amphibiaweb.org.
The Wandering and Arboreal Salamanders, 𝘈𝘯𝘦𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴 𝘷𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴 and 𝘈. 𝘭𝘶𝘨𝘶𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘴!
Parachuting salamanders! Brown et al 2022 documented controlled aerial descent in both species.
Video at amphibiaweb.org.
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Can a zebra change its stripes? 🦓
Melanized (dark) areas on poison dart frogs grow over time. Old frogs have more black and less color.
Yuan et al 2022 document this pattern change across three species.
amphibiaweb.org
Melanized (dark) areas on poison dart frogs grow over time. Old frogs have more black and less color.
Yuan et al 2022 document this pattern change across three species.
amphibiaweb.org
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Host 🐸 - pathogen 🦠 dynamics provides new insight as to the origin and spread of the global panzootic lineage of the amphibian chytrid fungus.
Byrne 2022 found host-specific strains on bullfrogs in both PA and NV.
Read more - amphibiaweb.org
Byrne 2022 found host-specific strains on bullfrogs in both PA and NV.
Read more - amphibiaweb.org
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Founder of AmphibiaWeb David Wake was celebrated May 7th at the @MVZUCB.
Attendees came from all over the world to celebrate David's work, impact on others, and his generosity of spirit he afforded every one he met.
wakelab.berkeley.edu/tributes
amphibiaweb.org
Attendees came from all over the world to celebrate David's work, impact on others, and his generosity of spirit he afforded every one he met.
wakelab.berkeley.edu/tributes
amphibiaweb.org
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Habitat fragmentation may lead to to increased pathogen susceptibility in anurans.
In Brazil's Atlantic Forest - @AnatLovesFrogs and their team found lower diversity in immune genes and higher Bd infection rates in fragmented habitats.
amphibiaweb.org
In Brazil's Atlantic Forest - @AnatLovesFrogs and their team found lower diversity in immune genes and higher Bd infection rates in fragmented habitats.
amphibiaweb.org
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The retention of juvenile traits in adults, called paedomorphosis, is common in salamander families.
In some species all adults are paedomorphs, in others only some.
Paedomorphs of a Japanese Hynobiidae haven't been seen since 1932.
Until now! amphibiaweb.org
In some species all adults are paedomorphs, in others only some.
Paedomorphs of a Japanese Hynobiidae haven't been seen since 1932.
Until now! amphibiaweb.org
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2/2 First thought to be the earliest chameleon in 99 MYA amber from Myanmar, are in fact the best-preserved albanerpetontids, the Yaksha perettii. See Daza et al 2020: science.org/doi/10.1126/sc…
and Wake 2020 Commentary: wakelab.berkeley.edu/wp-content/upl…
and Wake 2020 Commentary: wakelab.berkeley.edu/wp-content/upl…
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Diurnal frogs are more likely to have eyes with pigmented lenses that block UV light and increase image resolution 👀 Like humans!
So do nocturnal frogs that are arboreal. Maybe to see leafy details?
Read more from Thomas et al. - amphibiaweb.org
So do nocturnal frogs that are arboreal. Maybe to see leafy details?
Read more from Thomas et al. - amphibiaweb.org
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Did you know - even experts have trouble identifying tadpoles due to a lack of research.
Pezzuti et al. compiled a tadpole guide for 67 species in a high diversity area in Brazil. An invaluable resource for future conservation work.
Read more at - amphibiaweb.org
Pezzuti et al. compiled a tadpole guide for 67 species in a high diversity area in Brazil. An invaluable resource for future conservation work.
Read more at - amphibiaweb.org
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#MotivationMonday
Foothill Yellow-legged Frogs prevail despite threats from disease and invasive species.
Flexibility is key - wet winters allow for stream breeding, away from many threats.
Read more by Kupferberg et al. at amphibiaweb.org
Foothill Yellow-legged Frogs prevail despite threats from disease and invasive species.
Flexibility is key - wet winters allow for stream breeding, away from many threats.
Read more by Kupferberg et al. at amphibiaweb.org
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Did you know, some frog eggs hang from leaves above water? Or are cocooned in foam?
Méndez-Narváez and Warkentin (2022) study how these tadpoles deal with the dangers from dehydration and the toxic buildup of their own waste, before they enter the water.
amphibiaweb.org
Méndez-Narváez and Warkentin (2022) study how these tadpoles deal with the dangers from dehydration and the toxic buildup of their own waste, before they enter the water.
amphibiaweb.org
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Bd, aka chytrid, is a fungal pathogen that causes debilitating skin infections in amphibians, and worldwide population declines.
Basanta et al. looked into how the natural microbiome of the frogs affects Bd infections.
Read more at amphibiaweb.org
Basanta et al. looked into how the natural microbiome of the frogs affects Bd infections.
Read more at amphibiaweb.org
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Flashy moms get it done.
Did you know, some poison dart frogs only have a few spots of bright color? And transport tadpoles on their back?
Palacios‑Rodríguez et al found that brightly colored moms carried the most tads.
Why? For more check out - amphibiaweb.org
Did you know, some poison dart frogs only have a few spots of bright color? And transport tadpoles on their back?
Palacios‑Rodríguez et al found that brightly colored moms carried the most tads.
Why? For more check out - amphibiaweb.org
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"Anthropause" - a reduce in human activities on a landscape.
Due to pandemic times, some frogs have seen a 50% decrease in road mortality!!
Check out amphibiaweb.com to learn more about what Leclair et al. found on amphibian mortality rates from 2018-2020.
Due to pandemic times, some frogs have seen a 50% decrease in road mortality!!
Check out amphibiaweb.com to learn more about what Leclair et al. found on amphibian mortality rates from 2018-2020.
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You can donate anytime not just on #CalBigGive give.berkeley.edu/fund/FU0863000 We are all amphibians all the time! Plus we've got new products and improvements in the pipeline so keep checking AmphibiaWeb amphibiaweb.org
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Do you teach herpetology, conservation, evolution, or physiology? AmphibiaWeb can help your students learn and publish accounts about amphibian biology. Help support more student involvement by giving today! #CalBigGive
give.berkeley.edu/fund/FU0863000
give.berkeley.edu/fund/FU0863000
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“AmphibiaWeb played an important role in my career decision to become a doctor. It was the first time I experienced research, and seeing how researchers are passionate to learn... " give.berkeley.edu/fund/FU0863000 #CalBigGive
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Did you know that there are currently 7455 species of frogs, 767 species of salamanders, and 215 species of caecilians? AmphibiaWeb keeps track of new amphibian species and their biology. Support us today! #CalBigGive give.berkeley.edu/fund/FU0863000
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Some male salamanders "vaccinate" their mates with pheromones during mating.
Schulte et al. suspects Spikethumb frogs may be doing the same with their sharp teeth and voluptuous pheromone filled lips.
More on the wild mating habits of amphibians at amphibiaweb.org
Schulte et al. suspects Spikethumb frogs may be doing the same with their sharp teeth and voluptuous pheromone filled lips.
More on the wild mating habits of amphibians at amphibiaweb.org
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Harlequin toads are beautiful, bright, and have toxins found nowhere else in nature.
Pearson and Tarvin only 16 of the current 100 species have been assessed for toxins.
Conservation is essential for future studies of novel toxins.
amphibiaweb.org
@frogsicles
Pearson and Tarvin only 16 of the current 100 species have been assessed for toxins.
Conservation is essential for future studies of novel toxins.
amphibiaweb.org
@frogsicles
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Increasing temperatures from the climate crisis appears to negatively impact amphibian aging and mortality.
To read more from Cayuela et al. check out -amphibiaweb.org
To read more from Cayuela et al. check out -amphibiaweb.org
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The emergence of new species in amphibians is relatively slow compared to birds or mammals.
Dufresnes et al (2021) studied 41 hybrid zones to try and understand why.
One guess? The inherent biology of amphibian sex chromosomes.
Read more at -amphibiaweb.org
Dufresnes et al (2021) studied 41 hybrid zones to try and understand why.
One guess? The inherent biology of amphibian sex chromosomes.
Read more at -amphibiaweb.org
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Even frogs have to deal with flying blood suckers like mosquitos and midges.
Each frog species might even have their own co-evolved midge species.
Virgo et al. is on the case with some DNA detective work.
Read more at - amphibiaweb.org
Each frog species might even have their own co-evolved midge species.
Virgo et al. is on the case with some DNA detective work.
Read more at - amphibiaweb.org
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🧠 Brains need oxygen to function. 🍃 Algae produces oxygen during photosynthesis.
🍃 + 🧠 Put algae in brain?
Özugur et al. (2021) did just that. 🤯
Algae injected into tadpoles rescued brain activity in low-oxygen environments.
Read more at - amphibiaweb.org
🍃 + 🧠 Put algae in brain?
Özugur et al. (2021) did just that. 🤯
Algae injected into tadpoles rescued brain activity in low-oxygen environments.
Read more at - amphibiaweb.org
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Over 8 years Mind'je et al. observed the loss of 2/3rds of an urban wetland in Kigala, Rwanda.
For much of the world, we lack basic information on how the impact of human activities on wetlands, which are an essential habitat for many amphibians.
amphibiaweb.org
For much of the world, we lack basic information on how the impact of human activities on wetlands, which are an essential habitat for many amphibians.
amphibiaweb.org
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Happy New Year!!
Despite the challenges of 2021, we made great progress including the addition of 143 new species to the database - one of our most productive years.
Please connect with us in 2022 to keep up with amphibian research & conservation!
amphibiaweb.org
Despite the challenges of 2021, we made great progress including the addition of 143 new species to the database - one of our most productive years.
Please connect with us in 2022 to keep up with amphibian research & conservation!
amphibiaweb.org
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A possibly extinct species of frog from Ecuador and Colombia has bottom teeth.
Paluh et al. delve deeper into the anatomy of there teeth to understand if this complex structure has re-evolved. Conclusion? Probably not but more research is needed.
amphibiaweb.org
Paluh et al. delve deeper into the anatomy of there teeth to understand if this complex structure has re-evolved. Conclusion? Probably not but more research is needed.
amphibiaweb.org
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Cane toads were introduced from South American to Australia as pest control in 1935, then becoming pests themselves.
DeVore et al discovered Oz tadpoles have become 30x more cannibalistic of smaller tads than those from their native range. Nom nom.
amphibiaweb.org
DeVore et al discovered Oz tadpoles have become 30x more cannibalistic of smaller tads than those from their native range. Nom nom.
amphibiaweb.org
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Dancing frogs!!
Males of some species wave their legs to catch the attention of females. Foot flagging appears in multiple unrelated species, all live in noisy environments.
Anderson et al. suggest convergent evolution in hormones may be involved.
amphibiaweb.org
Males of some species wave their legs to catch the attention of females. Foot flagging appears in multiple unrelated species, all live in noisy environments.
Anderson et al. suggest convergent evolution in hormones may be involved.
amphibiaweb.org
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Colorful and caring parents.
Carvajal-Castro et al. (2021) found correlations between bright warning coloration (aposematism) and parental care in Neotropical poison frogs, Dendrobatidae.
Can you spot the tadpole in the photo?
amphibiaweb.org
Carvajal-Castro et al. (2021) found correlations between bright warning coloration (aposematism) and parental care in Neotropical poison frogs, Dendrobatidae.
Can you spot the tadpole in the photo?
amphibiaweb.org
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Monday motivation - Drought tolerance in native California species, but not invasives.
In a 10 year study, Moss et. al (2021), threatened CA amphibian populations returned post drought and invasive species were extirpated.
amphibiaweb.org
In a 10 year study, Moss et. al (2021), threatened CA amphibian populations returned post drought and invasive species were extirpated.
amphibiaweb.org
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Synchronized songs - Like other species, Japanese Ryukyu Kajika Frog males overlap their mating calls.
Legett et al. (2021) found that females aren't turned off by the
noisy hubbub. The multiple male melody decreases parasite and predator risk.
amphibiaweb.org
Legett et al. (2021) found that females aren't turned off by the
noisy hubbub. The multiple male melody decreases parasite and predator risk.
amphibiaweb.org
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Beyond Bd - It may be more than amphibian chytrid fungus causing high numbers of frog deaths across Australia. Over 30 species have succumb to this mass mortality event.
An investigation into the cause and impact of this event is ongoing
amphibiaweb.org
An investigation into the cause and impact of this event is ongoing
amphibiaweb.org
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Slender salamanders have the same problem humans are currently having. Richie et al. found that larger social groups increase transmission risk for pathogens. Unfortunate since they are social, cute, and snuggly! amphibiaweb.org
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Habitat & climate change are the leading threats to amphibians
@azandisarietta & @DKiernanSkelly found that wood frogs rapidly evolve to climate change & over the small spatial scale of habitat change
But there are limits to evolution...
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
@azandisarietta & @DKiernanSkelly found that wood frogs rapidly evolve to climate change & over the small spatial scale of habitat change
But there are limits to evolution...
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
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Amphibians have very permeable skin, but toads have colonized dry habitats all over the world.
Mailho-Fontana et al. examine how poison glands, ecology, and behavior all help toads maintain water balance.
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
Mailho-Fontana et al. examine how poison glands, ecology, and behavior all help toads maintain water balance.
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
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Understanding relationships among branches in the Tree of Life is essential for studying the evolution, ecology, & conservation of amphibians
Hime et al recently used the latest methods to further clarify amphibian taxonomy
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
Hime et al recently used the latest methods to further clarify amphibian taxonomy
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
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Want our next newsletter delivered to your inbox? Sign up at the link below!
We only email a few times a year
And you can also check out our prior newsletters archived at that link. Plenty of gorgeous amphibian pics & interesting AW info!
amphibiaweb.org/newsletter.html
We only email a few times a year
And you can also check out our prior newsletters archived at that link. Plenty of gorgeous amphibian pics & interesting AW info!
amphibiaweb.org/newsletter.html
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We released our latest newsletter today!
Missed it in your inbox? Check it out here: tinyurl.com/5ddyztsc
The latest AW news, what we've been up to in recent months, & the release of our "Illustrated Amphibians of the Earth"!
Missed it in your inbox? Check it out here: tinyurl.com/5ddyztsc
The latest AW news, what we've been up to in recent months, & the release of our "Illustrated Amphibians of the Earth"!
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Amphibians have played & continue to play important roles in biomedical research
Work by Brozio et al found that Túngara Frog foam produced during reproduction can be used as a topical drug-delivering foam for up to 10 days!
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
Work by Brozio et al found that Túngara Frog foam produced during reproduction can be used as a topical drug-delivering foam for up to 10 days!
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
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OK, can everyone stop to appreciate this Green Tree Frog (Litoria caerulea) that Eric Vanderduys uploaded to our database recently
Check out this & the treasure trove of amphibian pics our community shares on our database
calphotos.berkeley.edu/cgi/img_query?…
Check out this & the treasure trove of amphibian pics our community shares on our database
calphotos.berkeley.edu/cgi/img_query?…
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What do Pitohui birds & Phyllobates poison frogs have in common?
They both sequester & resist the potent toxin: batrachotoxin
Abderemane-Ali et al recently discuss how "toxin sponges" may help frogs & Pitohui sequester & resist batrachotoxin
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
They both sequester & resist the potent toxin: batrachotoxin
Abderemane-Ali et al recently discuss how "toxin sponges" may help frogs & Pitohui sequester & resist batrachotoxin
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
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Whether or not there's a tweet, there's always a new news highlight every week on amphibiaweb.org! This week: Can poison frogs count?
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AmphibiaWeb would not exist without Dave's dedication to amphibians, conservation and education. We sorely miss David Wake and take seriously his vision for AmphibiaWeb. heartfelt wishes to Marvalee and his family
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Xenobots
Blackiston et al recently created clawed frog "robots" by extracting parts of their embryos which turned into balls of cells that could move, heal, behave, & survive for months
These might help w/ medicine & environmental cleanup
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
Blackiston et al recently created clawed frog "robots" by extracting parts of their embryos which turned into balls of cells that could move, heal, behave, & survive for months
These might help w/ medicine & environmental cleanup
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
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Exciting!
We released our Spring 2021 Newsletter last week!
If you missed all the exciting updates from AmphibiaWeb, check it out here:
mailchi.mp/5e2ebd7f489b/s…
And sign up! They're just 4 times each year
We released our Spring 2021 Newsletter last week!
If you missed all the exciting updates from AmphibiaWeb, check it out here:
mailchi.mp/5e2ebd7f489b/s…
And sign up! They're just 4 times each year
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The international pet trade is bad news for biodiversity
Beyond immediate impacts on harvested populations, Gippel & Bertelsmeier recently showed that pet species tend to have traits that make it easy for them to become invasive species
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
Beyond immediate impacts on harvested populations, Gippel & Bertelsmeier recently showed that pet species tend to have traits that make it easy for them to become invasive species
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
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Amphibian genomes are super variable in size
Lamichhaney et al recently describe the genome of the ornate burrowing frog which has the smallest known amphibian genome which is similar to a bird's genome size
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
Lamichhaney et al recently describe the genome of the ornate burrowing frog which has the smallest known amphibian genome which is similar to a bird's genome size
Read more: amphibiaweb.org
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