Amphibians like frogs, toads, salamanders (indicator species) are extremely sensitive to changes in environment. Because amphibians are both predators and prey, many animals are affected by them. U.S. has over 200 species of salamanders.
They come in species large and small, brightly coloured, well-camouflaged, frilled, spotted, every variation we can think of. Entire menagerie in our own back yards, woods. Live in streams, bogs, rivers, ponds, lakes, vernal pools.
Sadly, species are threatened or endangered. Experts are calling the status an ‘amphibian apocalypse’. Facing many threats to survival. Chytrid fungus is decimating populations of frogs around the world. Chytrid dries their skin, affects ability to regulate moisture.
Disastrous trade of amphibians for use as exotic pets, foods, medicines are wreaking havoc with their numbers. Affected by habitat loss, pollution, pesticides, roads through habitat, competition from invasive species, climate change.
Let’s not catch or buy salamanders to keep as pets or fish baits!