LEAH LAPALME
studio_bleu et orange
In the previous assessments, the main threats to amphibian decline other than disease were linked to human activities, such as habitat loss, degradation and over-exploitation. However, in the second assessment, the primary driver of threats to extinction crisis is shifting from disease to the emerging threat of climate change. Because climate-related problems such as decreased rainfall, soil humidity and droughts can desiccate the eggs.
Although these problems made me feel frustrated, there were some hopeful cases where effective habitat protection and management led to some improvement in the status of threatened species. What makes me so sad is that, although we are aware of the impending crisis, amphibians are unable to foresee these threats themselves, and there is no spokesperson for their species. It is our job to speak up for their situation.
I genuinely appreciate all the authors for this article on Nature and everyone who works for conservation. As one of the species on this planet, I feel a deep sense of responsibility.