Undergraduate Research & Scholarships

Chenhey Chu

Investigating Maternal Egg Provisioning in the Phantasmal Poison Frog

This study investigates the possibility that female Epipedobates tricolor frogs enhance their offspring’s survival by provisioning their eggs with defensive toxins, as seen in closely related species. By comparing frogs fed toxin-rich and toxin-free diets, I aim to confirm whether chemical compounds in offspring are maternally sourced. Using chemical analysis (GC-MS), the project seeks to identify the reproductive strategy used by these vertebrates, especially since their parental care strategies have not been previously examined thoroughly. The findings can deepen our understanding of parental care and the evolution of chemical defenses, offering a glimpse into the hidden chemistry of frog motherhood.

Message To Sponsor

Thank you so much for your support! The opportunity you've given me to investigate a really fascinating phenomenon in poison frogs is so valuable towards understanding these charismatic animals while helping me pursue my passions for animal health and behavior.