![]() ![]() If a population does remain in the wild, it likely contains fewer than 50 mature individuals. Panamanian golden frogs are critically endangered, with a drastic population decline of more than 80% over a 10-year period due to chytridiomycosis combined with habitat loss and pressure from the pet trade. Currently, it is known to survive only in captivity. The species lived in the Central Cordilleran rainforests and cloud forests of western-central Panama. Panamanian golden frog by Brian Gratwicke (CC BY 2.0) Where it’s found: Their vibrant colors, however, don’t seduce potential mates but instead warn predators of their tremendous toxicity. As the deafening sounds of the waterfalls drowned out their mating calls, Panamanian golden frogs evolved a unique semaphore-like means of communication - a limb-waving behavior - to attract the attention of potential mates. These small, fluorescent-yellow harlequin toads bred along cold, fast-moving forest streams. ![]() Panamanian golden frog ( Atelopus zeteki) Description: They now exist only in conservation breeding programs. Panamanian golden frogs were once reasonably common but have disappeared from their entire range, largely due to the deadly amphibian fungal disease known as chytridiomycosis. ![]()
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