The chief of the Katukina Tribe in Brazil has initiated an economic development project built on his people's traditional knowledge of a poisonous tree frog.

The tribe has long used the slime of the kamb� to treat illness, pain and laziness. Chief Fernando hopes that knowledge can be used for economic gain.

With the backing of the Brazilian government, Fernando and 20 scientists are studying the slime in hopes that it can be turned into a pharmaceutical product. The tribe will receive a cut of any profits.

Get the Story:
Poisonous Tree Frog Could Bring Wealth to Tribe in Brazilian Amazon (The New York Times 5/30)
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