What kinds of malformations have been noticed, and how widespread is the problem? <!-- frogs, environment, biology, amphibians -->
USGS - science for a changing world

Frequently Asked Questions

Maps, Imagery, and Publications Hazards Newsroom Education Jobs Partnerships Library About USGS Podcasts/RSS
Home > FAQ

USGS Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What kinds of malformations have been noticed, and how widespread is the problem?

Answer:

A: Multiple limbs, missing limbs, and facial abnormalities are the main developmental malformations seen. Malformed amphibians are now documented in 44 states, in 38 species of frogs and 19 species of toads, with estimates of deformities as high as 60 percent in some local populations. Scientists now agree that current numbers of reported malformations significantly exceed the normal statistical variation.

Deformed Leopard Frog

Source of this FAQ:
http://www.usgs.gov/amphibian_faq.html

Return to list

 

Accessibility FOIA Privacy Policies and Notices

Take Pride in America logo USA.gov logo U.S. Department of the Interior | U.S. Geological Survey
URL: http://www.usgs.gov
Page Contact Information: USGS Web
Page Last Modified: