2008 is Year of the Frog
As members of BIAZA (British & Irish Association of Zoos & Aquaria) Blue Planet Aquarium are supporting the EAZA led (European Association of Zoos & Aquaria) 'Year of the Frog'.
EAZA, in association with WAZA (World Association of Zoos & Aquaria) decided that 2008 should highlight Amphibians to mark a major conservation effort across the world to protect endangered and threatened species, as well as highlighting the amazing different types of frogs, salamanders and toads that exist worldwide.
The World Conservation Union (IUCN) estimates that at least one third of known amphibian species are threatened with extinction. One big cause of this extinction is the infectious disease Chtridiomycosis (Chytrid). This fungus causes population and species extinction at an alarming rate. It does not pose a threat to humans.
To avoid the threat of Chytrid to the Blue Planet Aquarium frogs all new exhibits follow a strict quarantine period, with a clear three month isolation period. Existing exhibits are given regular health checks and our successful breeding programme has ensured we not only keep our displays looking good but that we can also share that success with other Zoos and Aquariums.
To learn more about WAZA and their commitment to amphibian conservation visit their website www.waza.org
HERE ARE SOME OF THE COLLECTION OF TROPICAL FROGS TO BE FOUND IN OUR FROG ROOM AT BLUE PLANET AQUARIUM. 
Green & Black Poison Frog
This frog is usually found in central America, However it has been discovered in Hawaii, having been introduced there illegally.
Tomato Frog
Although called a frog, this is actually a species of toad. When threatened, it inflates itself and secretes a toxic substance to deter predators.
Blue Poison Frog
Due to successful captive breeding programmes this is no longer considered an endangered speicies and can be found in most rainforests throughout Surinam.
Top 10 things you can do to help amphibians
- Learn about them! With over 5,300 species worldwide there’s plenty to discover!
- Visit amphibians in AZA accredited Zoos or Aquariums worldwide.
- Don’t let rubbish take over! Amphibians need clean waters and fresh air to be happy, just like us. Play your part in keeping rubbish and chemicals out of the natural environment.
- Research what is on your own doorstep - spring and summer are key times for catching site of frogs and toads.
- Invite them to visit – build a ‘Toad Abode’. It’s very easy, lay a terracotta pot on the ground upside down and prop up slightly with a small rock. Now you have a Toad Abode just wait and see what moves in!
- Provide safe places – Amphibians are naturally jumpy! They prefer to hide under protective leafy, green vegetation. You can help by adding native plant species to your garden.
- Protect them from pets and lawnmowers! Curious cats and digging dogs cause a lot of stress to frightened amphibians, train you pets to leave them alone! When mowing the lawn give frogs and toads a chance to jump out of the way first!
- Stick to natives. Never place non-native vegetation or release aquatic pets in the wild. Amphibians are especially sensitive to competition and threats from non-native species. Don’t be tempted to import any frogspawn into your pond from another area as you could unwittingly introduce red-leg virus, which kills frogs.
- Tell everyone! You know they’re cool, so spread the word. Frogs, toads and salamanders need all the fans they can get!
- Use less stuff, recycle more and re-use often! To make a positive impact on the environment follow the basic three R’s – Reduce, Re-use, Recycle!
Aspro Ocio Group
