---

Stopping Extinction: A Tale of Two Frogs

The earth is undergoing a biodiversity crisis. Habitat loss, pollution, overharvesting, climate change, and disease are causing the decline or extinction of hundreds of species every day. Amphibians are at the forefront of this crisis with 40% of all known species at risk of extinction. Many of these declines and extinction have been caused by the human-spread amphibian chytrid fungus. For my Ph.D. thesis, I am studying how we can beat this fungal killer and stop amphibian extinctions. First, I am studying the interactions between climate, disease, and frog populations to predict population decline or persistence. Second, I am treating frogs with an antifungal chemical to improve survival and population viability. Finally, I plan to reintroduce frogs back into wetlands where they have been wiped out by the fungus and I will monitor these populations to determine predictors of successful re-establishment. My research will give biologists the tools to better understand chytrid’s effect on amphibian populations and help to conserve endangered species.