Small tropical forest frog sitting in the palm of a human hand.
Camaguey region, Cuba, Central America Caribbean region.
Small rainforest frogs face numerous challenges that contribute to their plight, these vary between species and locations but some common threats include:
Habitat Loss – one of the primary threats to rainforest frogs is the loss of their natural habitat due to deforestation. Clearing of land for agriculture, logging, and urbanization reduces the available habitat for these frogs, disrupting their ecosystems and making it difficult for them to find suitable places to live and reproduce.
Climate change affects the temperature and precipitation patterns in rainforests, impacting the microhabitats that frogs depend on.
Amphibian diseases, such as chytridiomycosis caused by the chytrid fungus, have been devastating for many frog populations worldwide.
Pollution, including agricultural runoff, pesticides, and contaminants from human activities, can have detrimental effects on both water quality and the health of frog populations.
The introduction of non-native species, such as predators or competitors, can have serious consequences for native frog populations. Invasive species can outcompete or prey on native frogs, leading to declines in their numbers.