He invented mini saunas for frogs
A deadly fungus has already wiped out 90 species and threatens 500 more but Anthony Waddle is hoping gene replacement could be their salvation
TL;DR
- The chytrid fungus has caused the extinction of 90 amphibian species and endangers over 500 more.
- Conservation biologist Anthony Waddle is developing innovative methods to save frogs.
- Experiments included creating "frog saunas" by stacking bricks to raise frog body temperatures and reduce susceptibility to the fungus.
- Waddle is also working on raising and vaccinating hundreds of green and golden bell frogs for release into the wild.
- For species that cannot be vaccinated, such as southern corroboree frogs, gene replacement and synthetic biology are being explored.
- Waddle and his team have conducted the first experiment in Australia to create a transgenic frog.
- Synthetic biology, while controversial, is seen by some as a crucial tool for conservation to add diversity and disease resistance to vulnerable populations.
- The work is described as a "ray of hope" in amphibian conservation due to the dire global situation.