ROGERS — A deadly fungus is wiping out entire species of amphibians around the world, and Julia Sonn, a doctoral candidate at Tulane University, will present a program about the disease at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area Visitor Center.
The fungus causes amphibians’ skin to harden, interfering with the regulation of electrolytes, and eventually causes cardiac arrest, according to a new release. Entire species of amphibians have become extinct since the fungus first was described in 1999.
Sonn is a graduate of the University of Arkansas, and has studied reptiles and amphibians since she received her biology degree in 2006. Hobbs State Park is one of the places where she is surveying frogs and studying the pathogenic fungus Chytridiomycosis. The fungus has been found in Northwest Arkansas.
The Visitor Center is just east of the Arkansas 12 and War Eagle Road intersection.
This free program is part of the Friends of Hobbs Speaker Series. For more information call 479-789-5000. To learn more about upcoming Friends of Hobbs speakers and other park programs, go to the www.friendsofhobbs.com.
The park will host kayak tours of Beaver Lake from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday and Sunday.
Participants will learn the basics of paddling as the flotilla explores a calm arm of Beaver Lake. Recreational kayaks, paddles and life jackets will be provided. Bring a bottle of water, sunscreen and dress for the weather. Space is limited.
Cost is $12 for adults, $6 for children, no one younger than age 10 is allowed. Registration and prepayment is required. For more information and to register call, 479-789-5000.
The group will meet at the Visitor Center.