Amphibians are utilized in biomedical research to assist in the acquisition of both basic and intricate knowledge of various subjects including reproduction, development, genetics, physiology, neurology, and endocrinology. As a laboratory animal veterinarian, one must be familiar with the biology and diseases of amphibians in order to maintain their health and well being for the research protocols under which they are utilized. The most common amphibians utilized in research include different species of frogs, salamanders, and toads. This lecture will attempt to familiarize you with the basics regarding the husbandry, biology, and diseases of the most commonly used amphibians in biomedical research.

References

1.  Tinsley, RC and Kobel, HR. The Biology of Xenopus. Clarendon Press, Oxford, 1996.

2.  Fox, JG, Cohen BJ, and Loew, FM. Biology and Diseases of Amphibians In: Laboratory Animal Medicine. Academic Press, Orlando, 1984.

3.  Proceeding of the International Association of Aquatic Animal Medicine. 1968-2000. CD-Rom 2000.

4.  Nichols, DK, Lamirande, E.W., Pessier, A.P., and Longcore, JE. Experimental transmission and treatment of cutaneous chytridiomycosis in poison dart frogs (Dendrobates auratus and Dendrobates tinctorius). Joint proceedings of AAZV and IAAAM September 17-21, 2000.

5.  Wright, KM and Whitaker, BR. Amphibian Medicine and Captive Husbandry. Krieger Publishing, Melbourne, 2001.

6.  Conant, R and Collins, JT. Peterson Field Guides: Reptiles and Amphibians of Eastern / Central / Western North America. Houghton-Miffin, Boston, 1998.