27 February, 2007
Amphibian Ark Current Event
Scientists from around the globe met on the 15th and 16th of February 2007 in Atlanta to prevent 6,000 species of amphibians from becoming extinct. This group is called the “Amphibian Ark”. A fungus called chytrid fungus makes it difficult for frogs to use there pores. Frogs absorb water through these pores on there skin so without using these it causes the frogs to dehydrate. In the past decade scientists have estimated that up to 170 species of frogs have become extinct and 1,900 threatened. They are asking every zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden to take in at least 500 of the endangered species of frogs. Frogs, which make up the majority of amphibians, eat insects that would otherwise threaten public health. Also, frogs produce a chemical that is used as a pain reliever for humans. One species is linked to a chemical that disables the virus that causes AIDS. It estimated the project will cost $400-$500 million dollars to complete. Amphibian Ark are launching a fundraiser next year to raise money. When the fungus is eliminated scientists will still have to monitor the frogs because the chyrid fungus alone is not threatening the amphibians, global warming and air pollution are also responsible.
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