The Global Amphibian Decline:
Trends, Causes, and Challenges

Gulf coast toad (Bufo valiceps)
photo by Jeff Chow

Introduction

Global Trends
North America
Central and South America
Australia
Europe

Causes
Habitat Modification
Exotic Species
Acidification and Toxic Contiminants
Ultraviolet Radiation
Climate Change
Pathogens

Challenges

Bibliography

Links

Challenges for Researchers

Many amphibian species occur as metapopulations, thus the observed extirpations of local populations may be poor indicators of a species' status. Unfortunately, the precise metapopulation dynamics of many, if not most, amphibian species are still very poorly understood. Development of useful monitoring techniques for metapopulations is therefore crucial. Thorough understanding of the current amphibian decline will also require greater research into ecotoxicology and developmental biology. Interactive affects of multiple potential causative factors of amphibian declines must be further investigated. Moreover, greater coordination of activity and information among researchers is required, as are more research into less well-studied amphibian populations.