Chile and Argentina update conservation strategy for Darwin's frogs

Chile and Argentina have updated their Binational Conservation Strategy for Darwin's frogs to prevent the extinction of these unique amphibian species. The renewed initiative, covering the period from 2026 to 2040, involves a consortium of more than 20 public and private institutions from Chile, Argentina, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

The strategy focuses on two species: the northern Darwin's frog (Rhinoderma rufum), which has not been observed since 1981 and is considered critically endangered and possibly extinct, and the southern Darwin's frog (Rhinoderma darwinii), which is endangered and exists in highly isolated populations. These frogs are notable for a unique parental care method where males raise tadpoles within their vocal sacs.

Conservation efforts aim to address major threats including habitat loss, climate change, forest fires, and chytridiomycosis, an infectious disease affecting amphibian populations globally. The updated plan incorporates improved methodologies to strengthen the impact of conservation measures in the native forests of both nations.