IMPACTS OF URBANIZATION ON AMPHIBIANS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR THEIR CONSERVATION IN CITIES

Abstract

Amphibians face a range of threats in urban environments, including the loss and alteration of habitat, reduced ecological connectivity, chemical pollution of soil and wetlands, disease, introduced predators, and anthropogenic noise. However, amphibians are also a viable target for urban conservation, as many species can coexist with humans in cities if suitable provisions are made to protect their habitat and movement requirements, including the water quality at breeding sites. This chapter summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding urban amphibians and identifies the key challenges that need to be overcome for successful conservation of this group in an ever-urbanizing world.