Status and Threats of Afrotropical Amphibians
Edited by H. Heatwole and M. Rodel
Amphibians are among the most habitat-specific and environmentally sensitive vertebrates, owing to their unique physiology, specialized morphology, and complex life cycles. As a result, they are exceptionally vulnerable to environmental change. Today, more than one-third of all amphibian species are believed to be threatened, making their global decline a powerful symbol of the ongoing biodiversity crisis.
While the conservation status of amphibians in the Northern Hemisphere, Latin America, and Australia has been widely studied, Africa—particularly sub-Saharan Africa—has long remained underrepresented in the scientific literature. This book addresses that gap by presenting a comprehensive and visually compelling overview of Afrotropical amphibians, their habitats, and the threats they face.
Covering all sub-Saharan countries, Madagascar, and the western Indian Ocean islands, the volume synthesizes existing knowledge while introducing new data on species status, conservation challenges, and future prospects. Richly illustrated throughout, it serves as an essential reference for conservationists, researchers, and decision-makers, while remaining engaging and accessible to anyone with an interest in African amphibians, amphibian biology, and global conservation efforts.
