Golden mantella frogs tend to live in groups scattered around southeastern Madagascar, with males more plentiful than females. Their bright pigmentation, called aposematic coloration, advertises the frogs' toxicity to potential predators. (Photo by Allan Pessier)

Mining for cobalt and nickel generates much-needed income for the people of Madagascar. But these mineral resources, used by people all over the world, come at steep price for the environment, depleting forests and polluting waterways. For the golden mantella, whose brilliant hue also makes it a target for collection in the international pet trade, mines and agriculture spell disaster for its existence. But the frog has gotten a reprieve, thanks to the work of committed individuals at the Association Mitsinjo Amphibian Breeding Facility, which is home to 25 breeding groups of golden mantella frogs displaced by a mining project. San Diego Zoo Global's Senior Scientist Dr. Allan Pessier was asked to assist in health screening of the little amphibians before they are released into new ponds adjacent to the mine site.