That Reptile Blog – Reptile, Amphibian and Exotic Pet Care and Information

Some time ago I posted an article concerning possible new Federal regulations that could limit the trade in live amphibians (read it here), and promised to notify folks when the government asked for public comments.  That time is now upon us.

The Proposal – History and Intent

The proposed regulations stem from concerns that the trade in live frogs and salamanders (and frog legs) is aiding the spread of 2 deadly amphibian diseases, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (“Chytrid fungus” or Bd) and Ranavirus (please see the article mentioned earlier for details).   Read More »

Hundreds of amphibian species have been drive to extinction in recent years, and an estimated 30% of those remaining may soon follow.  Because most are difficult to find, herpetologists are now asking the public’s help in locating 100 species that are considered extinct but may still hold on in small numbers.

The recovery effort, launched this month (August, 2010) by Conservation International and the IUCN, spans the globe.  Even questionable sightings and photos are welcome –after all, a dog in Montana tipped researchers to the fact that the Black-Footed Ferret was not extinct (by killing one!), so you never know…

There is even a “10 Most Wanted List”, the members of which I’ll describe below. Read More »

At least 200 species of amphibians have become extinct in the last 30 years, and a full one-third of those remaining may soon follow. Despite rising concerns here in the USA, and the existence of a long-established law (the Endangered Species Act) that protects animals in peril, 12 native frogs, toads and salamanders remain neglected and in immediate need of protection.

A Crisis Situation for Many Species

According to the standards set by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, all 12 species qualify for protection under the Endangered Species Act.  However, a recent update released by the Center for Biological Diversity revealed the shocking fact that, for reasons that are not entirely clear (or, I’m sure, reasonable!), these rare amphibians remain on the Endangered Species Act “Candidates List” – unprotected and edging ever closer to extinction. Read More »

A bacterium that naturally occurs on the skin of certain frogs and salamanders has been shown to protect these animals from infection by a deadly Chytrid fungus infection.  Chytrid fungus, known as Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, has been very much in the news since its discovery in 1999.  It is believed to have caused the extinction of up to 200 amphibian species, and is still spreading in many countries. Read More »

Those of us who keep and breed small aquatic amphibians usually have a difficult time providing our pets with dietary variety.  This is especially true as regards salamander larvae and other creatures that usually accept only live foods.  In most cases, such animals must make do with the pet trade staples, Brine Shrimp and Blackworms.  Today I’d like to introduce a useful aquatic food item that is popular with aquarists but often over-looked by herp keepers – the Bloodworm (Chironomus spp.).

Natural History

Bloodworms resemble, but are unrelated to, aquatic worms.  Rather, they are the larvae of tiny flying insects known as Midges (often called “Gnats”) of the Family Chironomidae.  They have long been sold in stores specializing in tropical fishes, and can also be ordered from internet dealers.  Read More »