The world's 8,240 species of reptiles inhabit every continent
except Antarctica. Reptiles include turtles, snakes, crocodiles,
and lizards. They can be as small as the dwarf gecko (less than
an inch long) or as big as the saltwater crocodile, which can
weigh more than a ton. All reptiles have scales, but some are
too small to be seen. Reptiles are ectothermic (their body
temperature is regulated by their environment). Most lay eggs,
but a few give birth to live young. Amphibians are in crisis.
One-third of all known amphibian species are in danger of being
wiped out by Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd)—also known as
chytrid fungus. Experts and institutions have joined together to
form the Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, which aims
to rescue and possibly save numerous species. The discovery of
what may be three new frog species by researchers in Panama
illustrates the hope and fear encountered daily by the Panama
Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project. The discoveries lead
to hope that project