Endangered frog populations across the country are getting a vital boost through new sperm freezing technologies uncovered in Newcastle.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The study, led by the University of Newcastle's (UoN) reproductive biologist Dr Rose Upton, could be the key to ensuring genetic diversity in frog species, which are used for medicine and to balance natural ecosystems.
It comes as frog species dwindle at an unprecedented rate globally.
In Australia, this decline is from loss of habitat and disasters like the Black Summer bushfires.
Dr Upton said the pace of conservation work has previously delayed rigorous testing.
"We have always assumed a certain way has been the best way," Dr Upton said.
"It's been almost a necessity that really rigorous research has been skipped.
"We've just done the best we can because of massive declines [in frog species].
"This study improved the protocol by questioning our old assumptions."
The study found using less sugar when freezing sperm leads to better breeding results by producing more intact membranes, which can be implanted in female frogs through IVF.
The study was tested on six frog species and all were better preserved through the the new method.
Dr Upton said creating genetic diversity and preventing inbreeding would be key to long-term survival.
"Ideally, we would be collecting sperm from all populations of all frogs right now if you could," she said.
"The earlier you do that, the more of that genetic diversity you are going to capture."
IN THE NEWS
- Gateshead shooting into family home lands man in hospital
- Man acquitted of murder admits to more Newcastle pub hold-ups
- Road spikes end police pursuit of 15-year-old at Hexham
- Where Australia's discretionary cash is going after COVID
- Why a Hunter clinic had to call time on bulk billing patients
- Letters: Dungog's a delight, but rural life has a downside
To see more stories and read today's paper download the Newcastle Herald news app here.
Dr Upton's work has turned particularly to the Green and Golden Bell Frog, which is locally endangered in Newcastle.
She has also studied the Littlejohn's Tree Frog, which has a small population in the Watagans National Park.
Lucinda Garbutt-Young
Lucinda Garbutt-Young is a producer at The Canberra Times. She was previously a reporter at the Newcastle Herald, where she covered breaking news, court and other general news. Do you have a story? Email Lucinda at l.garbutt-young@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Lucinda Garbutt-Young is a producer at The Canberra Times. She was previously a reporter at the Newcastle Herald, where she covered breaking news, court and other general news. Do you have a story? Email Lucinda at l.garbutt-young@austcommunitymedia.com.au
