Amphibian Problems
Frogs around the world have some serious problems. They are suffering from deformities, diseases, and decreases in population. Wildlife workers have examined over 100 different kinds of amphibians. They have looked at frogs, tadpoles, toads, and other amphibians from across the country. The wildlife workers have gathered their samples from national wildlife refuges, national parks, and private lands. They are trying to help identify the causes of these problems and suggest solutions.
Studies suggest many causes are involved in this worldwide problem. Four major causes have been identified. These include injuries from predators, lack of food, diseases, and chemicals. Frogs do not have many enemies, but snakes, foxes, and hawks often make a meal of frogs. Scientists cannot stop injuries from these predators. Frogs eat insects. If the frogs' habitat has been sprayed with chemicals that kill insects, the frogs can experience a shortage of food Many scientists believe frog deformities, such as a missing hind leg, are the result of pollution. Pesticides are a form of pollution that affects tadpoles during the early stages of development Pesticides have been found in runoff from farms after heavy rains. Scientists are finding higher levels of deformities in frogs that have been exposed to pesticide runoff. Diseases affect frog populations. Newly discovered pathogens are causing problems too. A pathogen is a virus or bacteria that causes a disease. Scientists are finding that an alarming number of frog and toad deaths are caused by a virus. In the western United States, scientists have found that a certain fungus causes an infection that afflicts the endangered Wyoming toad and the boreal toad. The Mississippi gopher frog is also endangered. Now, another newly discovered disease is threatening the last known breeding population of this frog.
Every year, hundreds of salamanders, frogs, and toads from all over the country are submitted for health screening. Samples are sent to the USGS National Wildlife Health Center. They test eggs, larva, and adults. Researchers have developed new techniques to identify diseases quickly. Nationwide health monitoring has led to the discovery of new diseases. This gives researchers a better idea how to control the diseases and manage dedining amphibian populations.
Meanwhile, people can begin doing things to help save the frogs. Composting in a backyard garden creates good soil with lots of nutrients. Using compost eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers: Fertilizers with chemicals are harmful to frogs. Finding natural alternatives to chemical pesticides is another good idea. Some people create a chemical-free habitat in their backyard to attract frogs. They plant trees and flowers and have a water feature such as a small pond or fountain.