harlequin frogs

Harlequin Frogs Losing Toxic Defense, Facing Extinction Amid Conservation Challenges

Harlequin frogs, facing severe decline and extinction, are losing their toxic skin defense in captivity due to the absence of natural rainforest bacteria. This vulnerability, compounded by chytrid fungus, challenges reintroduction efforts. Scientists from UC Berkeley and PARC are researching toxin restoration and implementing a 20-year conservation plan.