Amphibians are experiencing declines in populations and extinction of species at a rate far beyond any other group in recent times. In spite of the academic awareness of a possible amphibian crisis and continued vigilance in habitat protection and trade, field biologists continued to document decimated populations, extinctions, and malformations of every variety. This module asks: what's been happening? How is it that the best-protected habitats in the world have failed to protect amphibians within their borders?
View this module in other languages:
Declive de Anfibios (Spanish)
See also:
Applying Critical Thinking to the Amphibian Decline Problem
Ecological Consequences of Extinctions
Threats to Biodiversity: An Overview
Theme: Ecology for Conservation
Language: English
Region: Global
Keywords: conservation, endangered, extinction, threats, anthropocene, amphibians
Components: 8
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Author: R. Donnelly, J.R. Mendelson
AmphibiaWeb is a comprehensive online hub of resources on amphibian biology and conservation. In addition to a database of taxonomic information for every recognized species of amphibian in the world, AmphibiaWeb also includes an updated list of publications on amphibian declines and conservation, a disease portal which allows users to look at current projects studying Bd, resources for educators, and an extensive photo database.
Through this citizen science program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, students can explore large scale, long-term data on frogs in the US, using maps and graphs. By examining species distribution, timing of calls, and other information, students can practice data analysis, learn more about these important amphibians, and even sign up to volunteer and help support the project.
Source: This film was produced by the Wilderness Committee and was directed by Mike McKinlay and Isabelle Groc.
This short documentary features a case study of the Oregon spotted frog (Rana pretiosa) in Fraser Valley, British Columbia. Historically, Oregon spotted frog populations occurred throughout the Fraser Valley, but it is now Canada's most endangered amphibian, with approximately 300 breeding females left. Conservation biologist Dr. Monica Pearson, discusses the causes of their decline, including the loss of wetlands, pollution, and invasive species such as American bullfrogs. This film could be used as a jumping off point for larger discussions, for instance, about the effects of ecosystem loss or the value of endangered species legislation.
Author: R. Donnelly, J.R. Mendelson
Author: R. Donnelly, J.R. Mendelson
Author: R. Donnelly, J.R. Mendelson
Author: R. Donnelly, J.R. Mendelson
