From genetic management to genetic rescue: Quantifying outbreeding depression thresholds in threatened Chiricahua Leopard Frogs (Lithobates chiricahuensis)

The project will conduct a comprehensive, experimental assessment of outbreeding depression in Chiricahua leopard frogs (CLF) using a multi-year, controlled breeding program at two field stations in Arizona and New Mexico. Researchers will implement hierarchical crosses between CLF populations of decreasing relatedness, measure key fitness proxies in offspring (egg hatching success, survival to metamorphosis, larval growth rate, size at metamorphosis), and introduce juveniles from successful crosses into monitored wild populations using capture-mark-recapture (CMR) and genomic surveillance. The project will also evaluate the impact of genetic mixing on disease resistance through laboratory inoculation experiments with Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). Additionally, it will provide hands-on research training for university and high school students and produce a professional documentary film on amphibian conservation.