Climate Change Endangering Amphibian Species in India and Globally

A new study warns that climate change is pushing amphibian species worldwide towards extinction. In India, 136 out of 426 amphibian species are at risk due to climate change, along with other factors.

Impact of Climate Change on Amphibians

• An international research team reveals that climate change is responsible for 39% of status deteriorations in amphibian species since 2004.
• Habitat loss follows closely, affecting about 37% of amphibian species during the same period.

Amphibian Diversity in India

• India, known for its rich biodiversity, hosts a significant number of amphibian species.
• States like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka have high amphibian diversity, with several species under threat.
• The Western Ghats in India is a region with concentrations of threatened amphibian species.

Global Perspective

• Other regions facing similar challenges include Caribbean islands, Mesoamerica, the tropical Andes, western Cameroon, eastern Nigeria, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka.
• The study’s findings are part of the second Global Amphibian Assessment, evaluating 8,011 species for the IUCN Red List.

Call for Urgent Action

• Among the documented amphibian species, 37 have gone extinct so far.
• Immediate investment and policy responses are critical to protect amphibian species and combat their decline.
• The study underscores the importance of aligning national conservation priorities with the changing status and threats to amphibians.

Month: Current Affairs - October, 2023