In this virtual talk, Smithsonian scientists highlight information found in the Smithsonian’s book, Extinctopedia: Discover What we Have Lost, What is at Risk, and How we Can Preserve the Diversity of our Fragile Planet. Extinctopedia tells a complex story of species who are extinct and those in greatest peril, with explanations of what threatens their survival. It is also a story of hope— for animals that have been rediscovered, newly-discovered species, and hope that we might hear the warning call and act to preserve the amazing biodiversity of our fragile planet for future generations to come. 

Brian Gratwicke is a conservation biologist and leads the amphibian conservation programs at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Brian’s focus is building capacity to conserve amphibians in Appalachia and Panama, developing outreach and educational programs and exhibits to build public support for amphibian conservation, and research to develop tools to reintroduce amphibians back into the wild. 

Dr. Gina Della Togna is a researcher and conservationist, currently serving as the Executive Director of the Amphibian Survival Alliance and a Research Associate at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. Dr. Della Togna earned her Ph.D. in Biological Sciences, with a specialization in Molecular and Cell Biology, from the University of Maryland, USA. Her groundbreaking research focuses on the reproductive biology of amphibians and the development of Assisted Reproductive Technologies for endangered species facing challenges in reproduction. 

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