South African Frogs
Conservation of amphibians has so far received little attention in comparison to that of other animal groups. Globally, amphibians are declining at a more rapid rate than any other vertebrate group and a number of amphibian species are already extinct. In spite of this global trend a thorough conservation plan does not exist for South African frogs.
Of the 135 described frog species of South Africa, 15% are listed in threatened categories according to IUCN guidelines. Although habitat destruction and the effects of other anthropogenic activities remains the primary cause for amphibian declines, infectious diseases have also been identified as a major cause for a substantial number of these declines. In particular, the disease chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungus Batrachochytium dendrobatidis is known to infect at least 93 species worldwide.
Through this project we will re-evaluate the current threats, including the chytrid disease, facing twenty threatened frogs of South Africa.
Should you have queries related to South Afican frogs, please contact Jeanne Tarrant.
Of the 135 described frog species of South Africa, 15% are listed in threatened categories according to IUCN guidelines. Although habitat destruction and the effects of other anthropogenic activities remains the primary cause for amphibian declines, infectious diseases have also been identified as a major cause for a substantial number of these declines. In particular, the disease chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungus Batrachochytium dendrobatidis is known to infect at least 93 species worldwide.
Through this project we will re-evaluate the current threats, including the chytrid disease, facing twenty threatened frogs of South Africa.
Should you have queries related to South Afican frogs, please contact Jeanne Tarrant.
Microbatrachella capensis