Panama fights to save its iconic golden frog from extinction

Scientists in Panama have launched a series of trial releases of the Panamanian golden frog (Atelopus zeteki), a critically endangered species and national symbol, as part of a major effort to restore wild populations of the iconic amphibian.

The Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project (PARC), a joint initiative of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) and the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI), along with the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Zoo New England, leads the effort to safeguard the amphibians most at risk of extinction.

Scientists released 100 golden frogs in soft-release pens known as mesocosms and monitored them post-release, with about 70% dying from chytridiomycosis, a deadly fungal disease. Researchers say data collected from the deceased frogs will help them understand disease dynamics and how the animals regain their skin toxicity after consuming a wild diet.

STRI scientist and project director Dr. Roberto Ibanez told Reuters on Friday (April 10) that the goal is to scale up the effort, noting the team aims to use these early trials to "carry out mass releases and restore populations that have disappeared from our natural areas."

Prior to the golden frog release, three other species (crowned tree frogs, Pratt's rocket frogs and lemur leaf frogs) were released in 2025, with trials exceeding researchers' expectations, particularly in the survival rate of lemur leaf frogs.

Project Manager Dr. Jorge Guerrel noted the logistical challenges of keeping the frogs fed in captivity, explaining that since there are no suppliers in Panama, the team must produce everything within the centre, from live crickets to earthworms and cockroaches.

-Abraham Teran, Alberto Fajardo, Andrea Rodriguez/Reuters