Saving Amphibians
Around the world, amphibians are disappearing at an alarming rate. More than 40% of species could face extinction within the next century.
At the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, our scientists are working every day to conserve frogs, salamanders, and other amphibians — both in the wild and in human care.
Saving Species at Home and Abroad
In Panama, we co-founded a conservation center that safeguards species already extinct in the wild.
We survey remote forest sites in the U.S. and around the world to discover where amphibians are still thriving.
We help monitor salamanders in Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains to track populations and habitats.
Reintroducing Amphibians Into the Wild
With our partners, we release captive-bred frogs and toads into carefully chosen field sites.
After release, we use tracking devices to follow their movements and check if they're breeding successfully.
With each reintroduction, we study data to learn what works best, giving the animals the greatest chance of survival.
Applying Cutting-Edge Science
We detect hard-to-find species by collecting tiny traces of environmental DNA (eDNA) from soil and water.
We work to better understand disease resistance by studying the protective microbes that live in amphibian skin.
We safeguard genetic diversity by cryopreserving eggs and sperm for future conservation efforts.
Combating Chytrid, the Deadly Disease
We test medications to boost immunity against chytrid, a disease lowering survival rates of many amphibian species.
Fast, accurate screening tools help us detect infection early.
We study naturally-resistant species to uncover the keys to their survival.
Strengthening Long-Term Resilience
We test and apply beneficial probiotic microbes to strengthen amphibians’ immune systems.
We selectively breed individuals to pass along traits like natural disease resistance.
We track climate and habitat changes to adapt conservation strategies for the future.
Reaching Out to the Public
We share amphibian stories with millions of visitors each year at our National Zoo.
We share educational resources and lesson plans with classrooms across the U.S. and around the globe.
We host public events like Amphibian Week, celebrating the important role these animals play in healthy ecosystems.
Our Research Centers
From the Zoo in Washington, D.C., to field stations across the globe, our research centers bring together experts working to save species — not just amphibians, but also elephants, pandas, birds, and more.
Meet Our Scientists
Brian Gratwicke
Brian is a conservation biologist who leads our amphibian conservation programs.
Pierre Commizzoli
Pierre researches fertility preservation and assisted reproduction to protect genetic diversity across many species.