About Us
The Mission
Atelopus podocarpus is a Critically Endangered species, seen just once since 1994. By catching and taking photos of the belly patterns of the frogs we find, we might be able to learn more about their population size, and inform future conservation decisions for this species. Should a captive breeding programme be set up in case their situation has worsened? What are their threats in this deserted paramo habitat? How much of a role does the chytrid fungus play in its disappearance?
Moreover, a novel spin on the project makes it even more exciting. We are going to collect samples from the skin of the frogs and their environment. Then, we will compare the bacteria and fungi present where the species still lives, to sites where it has gone extinct. Perhaps some of these fungi and bacteria provide a piece to the puzzle of how to fight the chytrid fungus in the future?
The Team
Phil Jervis
Phil really brought the project together, building onto the work and partnerships of his Master's project. During his studies, he travelled many sites in Ecuador, studying fungal communities on different species of amphibians. His prior knowledge of the local landscape, fauna and the chytrid fungus is essential to the project.
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Berglind Karlsdóttir
Berglind did her Master's study on the barriers to amphibian captive breeding programmes in tropical countries. She has become very familiar with operational necessities such as planning and communication, and she brings the social aspect to this project. She has previously spent time in the Ecuadorian jungle, which is where her passion for amphibians was ignited.
Freddy Almeida
Freddy is a biologist who is in charge of maintaining the amphibian collection at la Balsa de los Sapos. He has joined Phil on previous field trips in Ecuador. His knowledge and expertise on local amphibians makes him a vital part of the team in the search of Atelopus podocarpus and other target frogs.
