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With the worldwide decline of amphibians, captive breeding is vital for the long-term conservation of many endangered species. Spindly leg syndrome is a musculoskeletal abnormality commonly associated with captive rearing that results in underdeveloped limbs in newly metamorphosed frogs. Researchers will investigate if calcium or phosphate concentrations in water used to rear tadpoles are factors that limit limb development. A clearer understanding of the causes of this developmental abnormality will improve survival rates in captive amphibians reared for conservation.

Study ID
D18ZO-040
Study Status
Complete
Start Date
07/01/2018
Grant amount awarded
$46,329
Grant recipient
Smithsonian Institution
Study country
United States
Investigator
Brian Gratwicke, D.Phil
Study category
Musculoskeletal