IUCN Species of the Day: Darwin’s Frog

 

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(tm)

Photo credit: Andres Charrier

 

Darwin’s Frog, Rhinoderma darwinii, is listed as ‘VULNERABLE’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™. First discovered by Charles Darwin, Darwin’s Frog occurs in the forests of central and southern Chile and Argentina, and has an intriguing system of reproduction in which the male broods the eggs and tadpoles within its vocal sacs.

Darwin’s Frog has undergone a worrying decline in recent years, with some populations disappearing entirely. In some parts of its range, these losses can be attributed to habitat loss through deforestation and the replacement of native trees with introduced pine and eucalyptus, as well as to drought. However, in other areas the exact cause of the decline is unknown, but may be linked to global climate change or disease.

Although Darwin’s Frog is found in several protected areas, there is a need for improved management of these sites and the protection of more areas. Close population monitoring will also be required in order to help identify the causes of decline in apparently suitable habitat.

 

Geographic Range of Darwin’s FrogsCredit: IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ 

 

To learn more about Darwin’s Frogs, click here.  Or visit the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ by clicking their logo below.

 

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To learn more about the Bush Warriors “Species of the Day” feature, please click here and read up on our initiative to raise awareness about the loss of earth’s biodiversity.

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