Discover the fascinating world of Cuban Treefrogs and join us for an exciting workshop aimed at effectively managing their invasion. Led by Dr. Steve Johnson, an expert on Cuban Treefrogs from UF/IFAS Extension, this workshop will provide you with valuable insights on recognizing these invasive frogs and exploring management options. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to learn how to monitor and report data on Cuban Treefrog populations. Together, let’s take action to address the challenges posed by the invasion of Cuban Treefrogs! The Workshop will be held September 28th 9am – 3pm CDT at 2728 E14th St, Panama City, FL 32401Register Here
The Invasion of Cuban Treefrogs:
Originating from Cuba and introduced unintentionally to Florida in the 1920s, the Cuban Treefrog has rapidly established itself across various states, including Georgia and Louisiana. Believed to have arrived as stowaways in shipping crates, these non-native frogs have become a cause for concern due to their impacts on native treefrog and toad populations.
Understanding the Threat:
Cuban Treefrog adults and their tadpoles are known predators of native treefrogs and toads. Their presence poses a significant threat to the delicate balance of our ecosystems. Therefore, it is crucial to develop effective management strategies to curb their invasion and minimize their impact on our native species.
Workshop Highlights:
During the workshop, Dr. Steve Johnson, an esteemed authority on Cuban Treefrogs, will guide participants through the identification and management of these invasive frogs. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge and practical skills to recognize Cuban Treefrogs and explore options for effectively managing their populations. Participants will also build and take home their own treefrog house (refugia) made with PVC.
Contributing to Research:
In addition to learning about identification and management, workshop attendees will have the opportunity to play an active role in monitoring and reporting data on Cuban Treefrog populations. By actively participating in data collection efforts, you will contribute to scientific research and provide crucial insights into the distribution and behavior of these invasive frogs.
Join the Cause:
The invasion of Cuban Treefrogs is a pressing environmental issue that requires collective action. By attending our workshop, you can become an agent of change in addressing this invasive species. Let’s work together to protect our native treefrogs and toads by effectively managing the population of Cuban Treefrogs.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to join Dr. Steve Johnson and fellow nature enthusiasts in our workshop focused on managing the invasion of Cuban Treefrogs. By acquiring knowledge, developing practical skills, and contributing to data collection efforts, you can actively participate in protecting our native species and preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystems. Together, let’s make a difference and tackle the challenges posed by the Cuban Treefrog invasion. Register now and be a part of this important environmental initiative!
An invasive Cuban Tree Frog specimen. Invasive species, amphibians and reptiles. frogs, pests. UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones.
National Invasive Species Awareness Week: March 3rd – March 8th
March 8th: Red Imported Fire Ant (Solenopsis invicta Buren) & Giant Tiger Prawn (Penaeus monodon):
Photo Credit: David Almquist, University of Florida
Red Imported Fire Ant: Many of us cherish childhood memories of family picnics during summer. What we likely also remember are the surprise guests that arrive to take away any crumbs we happen to drop their way. Ants are a common site in almost any yard or farm in Florida. Homeowners and farmers spend time and money trying to rid their landscapes of the pests. Red imported fire ants (RIFA) are a species first introduced into the United States in our local area through the port of Mobile. These ants have now spread to states as far west as California and north to Maryland. Red or brown in body color, they build large nests with soil above the ground. Any disturbance of the mound brings thousands of angry ants to find the intruder. Ants have a short lifecycle and lifespan. Eggs usually hatch in 22-38 days and workers live no longer than 6 months. Queens can live to 6 years, however. RIFA’s forage on dead animals and home food wastes. Garbage and food left around the home can attract ants into dwellings. Mounds are common around or under structures, moving to higher ground during rainy weather. RIFA’s can also damage crops and cause equipment damage with large enough infestations. Management for these pests can be accomplished in two ways: through individual mound treatments or through broadcast treatments. Individual recommendations can be found here, http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in352. Whatever method of treatment you choose, make sure to follow proper label recommendations on products. Care should be given to areas where children, pets, and livestock have access to avoid ingestion of treatments chemicals.
For more information, contact the author Allison Meharg, 4-H Livestock & Small Farms Agent 850-475-5230.
Photo Credit: FWC photo by Michelle Sempsrott
Giant Tiger Prawn:This large shrimp, also known as the Asian Tiger Shrimp and the Black Tiger Shrimp, can reach lengths between 8-12 inches. It resembles are native edible penaeid shrimp but differs in that it has distinct black and yellow stripes. It was brought to the U.S. from the Indo-Pacific region as an aquaculture product. There was an accidental release of 2,000 animals from a South Carolina farm in 1988. Reports of this shrimp in the wild have increased over time. They have been found in all Gulf coast states and there has been at least 1 record in each of the Florida panhandle counties. The impact of this shrimp to our area is still unknown but they have a high tolerance for salinity change and consume many types of benthic invertebrates. It is thought that they could become serious competition for our native penaeid shrimp and could possible transmit diseases. If you think you have found one of these shrimp, record size location (GPS preferred) and email information to ExoticReports@MyFWC.com. To learn more about this species view the USGS factsheet.
For more information, contact the author Rick O’Connor, Sea Grant/Marine Sciences Agent 850-475-5230.
