ARC wink launch a massive search for three critically imperiled amphibian species before it's too late. Specifically, we will search for: Hellbenders: Gopher Frogs and Frosted Flatwoods Salamanders – via Herp Digest

From Jeff Holmes-Executive Director

The Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy

I am thrilled to announce that ARC, in partnership with the USDA Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service and numerous other partners to be named soon, will launch a massive search for three critically imperiled amphibian species before it's too late. Specifically, we will search for: 

            Hellbenders

            Gopher Frogs

            Frosted Flatwoods Salamanders

How will we do it? Using environmental DNA, or eDNA for short.  

When amphibians, adults or tadpoles, are present in a stream or wetland, their DNA is present in the water. Technology has progressed to the point that those tiny particles can be detected in a lab, confirming presence or absence of the targeted species.  

There will still be a need for long hours and backbreaking work searching for these precious natural treasures using traditional methods, but eDNA will expand on these efforts beyond anything we could have imagined!

And no matter what we find, ARC and Partners have layers of contingency plans, so a rapid conservation response is assured.  

More funding = more samples. Right now, we plan to sample HUNDREDS of streams and wetlands. But with your gift, we might break through into THOUSANDS!  

I'm excited! Are you?

Jeff Holmes

Executive Director

The Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy