GRASSLAND
FOREST
Wetlands
WETLAND
Projects Uncovering the Secrets of Harlequin Toad Survival in the Peruvian Andes

Uncovering the Secrets of Harlequin Toad Survival in the Peruvian Andes

  • Peru
  • GRASSLAND , FOREST , WETLAND
We are using eDNA metabarcoding to re-detect lost Atelopus species across the Peruvian Andes, while simultaneously scanning for other species of high conservation concern and identify potential threats to remaining habitats. Besides shedding more light on the survival of Atelopus species, our insights will aid in providing rapid and essential baseline data for guiding conservation action.
Funding status
Donate

What’s the problem?

The greatest disease-driven loss of biodiversity in history is attributable to Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), a fungal pathogen causing catastrophic amphibian declines around the world. The colorful and iconic harlequin toads (genus Atelopus) are among the hardest hit species in this crisis, with the majority now Critically Endangered, and numerous “lost” species not seen in several decades.

What are we doing about it?

Our main goal is to lay the foundation for a much-needed monitoring program to establish longer-term population trends and environmental threats to help safeguard Peru’s amphibian communities.

To establish that, our Tropical Andes Programme Manager Jesse, was in Peru between February and April 2025 to work together with partners of – amongst others – the Museo de biodiversidad del Perú (MUBI) and the herpetology department of the Centro de Ornitología y Biodiversidad (CORBIDI).

EDNA Analysis

Perform eDNA metabarcoding assessments in and around historical localities of a carefully selected subset of Atelopus species that are in imminent threat of extinction. We’re assessing their current survival status and delineating extant distribution ranges as a vital lifeline in guiding conservation action.

Provide on-site training in the current and future applications of eDNA in order to empower local researchers and conservationists in employing DNA-based methods in biodiversity assessments.

What’s next?

The following will happen in the next couple of months:

  • Analyze all samples to characterize the present amphibian diversity and that of other taxa of high conservation relevance. Beyond our Atelopus target species, these analyses will yield valuable community-level data to inform broader habitat conservation efforts.
  • Analyze the collected eDNA samples to test for the ongoing presence of Bd as well as other environmental threats to facilitate more comprehensive conservation assessments.
  • Create a solid conservation and monitoring plan based on the gathered insights.
eDNA metabarcoding Habitats

partners

Other projects

  • Biodiversity conservation
Chinambi-Golundrinas, picture by Davy Noelmans

Chinambí, a diversity hotspot for harlequin toads in the Chocó

  • Ecuador
  • FOREST
The Chocó forests of northwestern Ecuador and western Colombia are among the world's top ten biodiversity hotspots. The project is located within the Key Biodiversity Area “Drácula-Golondrinas”, known for its extremely high biodiversity with many species occurring only there. Two species of critically endangered Harlequin Toads are persisting until today in the Municipalities of Mira and Espejo: Atelopus coynei and Atelopus lynchi. Together with our implementing partner Centro Jambatu and local communities, we protect these endangered harlequin toads and empower local stewards of biodiversity.
Read more