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Journal Vol 48 (3)

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Facility Design and Associated Services for the Study of Amphibians

Robert K. Browne, R. Andrew Odum, Timothy Herman, and Kevin Zippel

Robert K. Browne, Ph.D., is a Research Associate, Perth Zoo, South Perth, Western Australia. R. Andrew Odum, Ph.D., is Curator, Department of Herpetology, Toledo Zoological Society, Toledo, OH. Timothy Herman, B.S., is a Herpetologist, Department of Herpetology, Toledo Zoological Society, Toledo, OH. Kevin C. Zippel, Ph.D., is an Amphibian Program Officer, IUCN/SSC Conservation Breeding Specialist Group, Apple Valley, MN.

Address correspondence and reprint requests to Dr. Robert K. Browne, Perth Zoo, 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth, Western Australia, 6151, or email robert.browne@gmail.com.

Abstract

The role of facilities and associated services for amphibians has recently undergone diversification. Amphibians traditionally used as research models adjust well to captivity and thrive with established husbandry techniques. However, it is now necessary to maintain hundreds of novel amphibian species in captive breeding, conservation research, and biomedical research programs. These diverse species have a very wide range of husbandry requirements, and in many cases the ultimate survival of threatened species will depend on captive populations. Two critical factors have emerged in the maintenance of amphibians, stringent quarantine and high-quality water. Because exotic diseases such as chytridiomycosis have devastated both natural and captive populations of amphibians, facilities must provide stringent quarantine. The provision of high-quality water is also essential to maintain amphibian health and condition due to the intimate physiological relationship of amphibians to their aquatic environment. Fortunately, novel technologies backed by recent advances in the scientific knowledge of amphibian biology and disease management are available to overcome these challenges. For example, automation can increase the reliability of quarantine and maintain water quality, with a corresponding decrease in handling and the associated disease-transfer risk. It is essential to build facilities with appropriate nontoxic waterproof materials and to provide quarantined amphibian rooms for each population. Other spaces and services include live feed rooms, quarantine stations, isolation rooms, laboratory space, technical support systems, reliable energy and water supplies, high-quality feed, and security. Good husbandry techniques must include reliable and species-specific management by trained staff members who receive support from the administration. It is possible to improve husbandry techniques for many species by sharing knowledge through common information systems. Overall, good facility design corresponds to the efficient use of space, personnel, energy, materials, and other resources.

Key Words: amphibian; captive breeding; facilities; husbandry; quarantine; research; UVB; water quality