Each and every day, more and more people are becoming aware of what is being called the Global Amphibian Crisis. For the last three decades, scientists around the world have reported the declines and disappearances of dozens of different species. There are many reasons why amphibians are disappearing – the ongoing loss of habitat, climate change, growing levels of air and water pollution, exploitation for the food and pet trades, the introduction of invasive species, and the spread of disease, including a deadly fungus that has already sent some species over the brink of extinction.
According to the Global Amphibian Assessment, the total number of amphibian species known to science now stands at about six thousand, but one out of every three is in danger of extinction. As biologists identify a new species in one part of the world, one or more may vanish in another.
To help save the world’s frogs, toads, salamanders and newts, zoos and aquariums have helped to launch the Amphibian Ark and are celebrating 2008 as the Year of the Frog. Institutions around the world have committed to rescue amphibian species in danger of extinction by creating special captive breeding programs and reintroduction efforts, and we are also reaching out to zoo and aquarium members and visitors to create greater public awareness.
