Mongabay · Climate & nature

Southern California Frog Reintroduction Efforts Advance

Conservation groups released hundreds of southern mountain yellow-legged frogs into the San Gabriel Mountains, continuing efforts to revive the endangered species. These releases are crucial for the frogs' survival amidst significant population declines.

The southern mountain yellow-legged frog faces drastic reductions due to invasive fish, climate change, and the chytrid fungus. Recent releases, involving institutions like the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Los Angeles Zoo, aim to bolster wild populations.

Captive-bred frogs and tadpoles are being released at various sites. Researchers are also investigating ways to manage the impact of the chytrid fungus, a major threat to amphibian recovery.

The release process involves collecting small, fast-moving frogs from rearing tanks. The Aquarium of the Pacific has been raising these frogs since 2021 as part of a long-term conservation initiative.

Frogs are transported to suitable mountain habitats with fast-moving water and deep pools. Over 650 frogs were released this year, with nearly 400 raised at the Aquarium of the Pacific.

The species' population has declined by about 98% in Southern California. Historically, they played a vital role connecting freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems.

Captive breeding programs began in 2003. Challenges included inducing reproduction, which requires a hibernation-like state called brumation. Research focuses on husbandry, genetics, and assisted reproduction.

Combating the chytrid fungus is a key challenge. Strategies include anti-fungal treatments and immune priming. While northern populations show some resistance, the southern population's genetic diversity for developing immunity is uncertain.

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