Bezos Earth Fund Gives $2 Million Grant To Launch Groundbreaking Amphibian Conservation Project Across Latin America
The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) and the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI), in partnership with the Amphibian Survival Alliance (ASA), have launched a transformative five-year conservation initiative spanning Panamá, Venezuela, Ecuador and Colombia to aid endangered frog species. Backed by a $2 million grant from the Bezos Earth Fund, the Tropical Amphibian Resilience Initiative (TARI) is set to become a model for international conservation collaboration.
In recent decades, habitat loss, climate change and the spread of a deadly chytrid fungus have pushed countless amphibian species toward extinction. Now, led by the scientific expertise and global reach of the Smithsonian, TARI brings together partners to reverse that trend in one of the world’s most amphibian-rich regions—the Neotropics, which harbors 48% of the planet’s amphibian biodiversity.
“The Smithsonian is uniquely positioned to lead this effort,” said Ellen Stofan, the Smithsonian’s Under Secretary for Science and Research. “With its long-standing presence in the tropics and deep bench of conservation scientists, STRI and NZCBI will drive cutting-edge strategies to recover amphibian populations affected by fungal disease and environmental threats.”
“This partnership between the Bezos Earth Fund and the Smithsonian is about turning the tide,” said Cristián Samper, managing director and leader for nature solutions at the Bezos Earth Fund. “By investing in regional collaboration, we are laying the foundation for amphibian conservation that will have a lasting impact.”
As part of TARI, researchers will develop and deploy new tools to rewild native frogs raised in captivity, identify and safeguard critical habitats, and boost captive populations of 25 of the region’s most endangered species by 15% over five years.
“This is an unprecedented opportunity for amphibian conservation,” said Gina Della Togna, executive director of ASA and research associate at STRI. “It’s a powerful testament to what collaboration can achieve—and a sobering reminder of how much help amphibians still need.”
TARI’s reach extends beyond research. Through strategic collaboration with regional partners—including Parque Explora (Colombia), FUDECI (Venezuela) and Centro Jambatu (Ecuador)—ASA is coordinating boots-on-the-ground conservation in key biodiversity hotspots. The initiative will also launch a regional Amphibian Biobank to safeguard the genetic diversity of at least 25 critically endangered frog species and expand regional expertise through training workshops in small-population management.
Community involvement and education are also at the heart of the project. TARI will help update National Amphibian Action Plans in each country to align with global biodiversity targets and engage more than 1,000 students annually through outreach programs and public seminars designed to raise awareness and foster stewardship.
“I am deeply grateful to the Bezos Earth Fund for their trust in this partnership and their commitment to conserving the most threatened group of vertebrates on the planet,” Della Togna said. “I am equally thankful to our incredible partners, whose expertise and dedication have made this ambitious initiative possible.”
As part of the Smithsonian’s broader Life on a Sustainable Planet initiative, this project paves the way for a more hopeful future for amphibians—and for the ecosystems that depend on them.
About the Smithsonian’s Life on a Sustainable Planet Initiative
Life on a Sustainable Planet (LSP) is a vital initiative from the Smithsonian designed to advance and inspire global engagement in environmental stewardship. This comprehensive program applies the Smithsonian’s expertise in science, outreach and education to foster holistic approaches to preserving ecosystems, building resilience and educating the world about sustainable climate solutions. Smithsonian scientists partner with communities and organizations worldwide, conducting research and educational programs to shape the future. LSP programs save and protect biodiversity, champion sustainable practices and offer innovative solutions to the challenges posed by our changing climate. Learn more at science.si.edu.
About the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
Headquartered in Panama City, STRI is a unit of the Smithsonian Institution dedicated to understanding tropical biodiversity and its importance to human welfare. STRI trains students, advances tropical research and fosters conservation through education and outreach. Learn more at stri.si.edu.
About the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
At the forefront of wildlife conservation, NZCBI works in over 47 countries to protect species and their habitats. Through its Zoo in Washington, D.C., free public programs and global conservation training, NZCBI connects millions to the wonders of wildlife and prepares the next generation of conservation professionals. Learn more at nationalzoo.si.edu.
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