Panamanian Golden Frog
Atelopus zeteki
Conservation Status
Critically EndangeredAmphibia · Anura · Bufonidae
About
The Panamanian golden frog, also known as Cerro Campana stubfoot toad and other names, is a species of toad endemic to Panama. Panamanian golden frogs inhabit the streams along the mountainous slopes of the Cordilleran cloud forests of west-central Panama. While the IUCN lists it as Critically Endangered, it may in fact have been extinct in the wild since 2007. Individuals have been collected for breeding in captivity in a bid to preserve the species. The alternative common name, Zetek's golden frog, and the epithet zeteki both commemorate the entomologist James Zetek.
Fun Fact
The Panamanian golden frog communicates by waving its hands in semaphore-like signals — an adaptation for communicating near loud streams where calls can't be heard.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Endemic to Panama, living close to mountain streams on the eastern side of the Tabasará mountain range in the Coclé and Panamá provinces.
Diet
Carnivore
Lifespan
12 years
Threats
- Chytridiomycosis (Bd) — Population Collapse
- Habitat Loss in El Valle de Antón
- Collection for Pet Trade