Amphibian Declines

Amphibian declines refer to the significant decrease in frog, salamander, and newt populations worldwide. These declines are caused by multiple factors, including habitat loss, pollution, climate change, disease (notably chytridiomycosis), and invasive species. Amphibians are sensitive to environmental changes because they breathe through their skin and often have complex life cycles involving water and land. Their decline is concerning because they play vital roles in ecosystems as predators and prey, and their health indicators reflect broader environmental issues. Protecting amphibians requires habitat conservation, pollution control, and disease management efforts.