Introduction

• Amphibians are unique creatures bridging aquatic and terrestrial environments.
• They are important in ecosystems and their status is often-overlooked.

Biology of Amphibians

• The main groups of amphibians (class Amphibia) are: frogs, toads, salamanders, and caecilians.
• Their name, derived from the Greek words "amphi" (both) and "bios" (life)
• They have a unique permeable skin through which they breath, consume water and absorb nutrients.
• Their permeable skin makes them sensitive to environmental changes and they are good indicators of ecosystem health.

Ecological Roles

• Amphibians are predators of insects, regulating populations and controlling pests.
• Amphibians are prey for other animals, highlighting their place in the food web.
• Amphibians make a significant contribution to nutrient cycling.
• Amphibian’s unique features have potential in medical research.

Amphibians in Britain and Sidmouth

• There are two groups of amphibians in Britain: frogs/toads and newts.
• There are reports of both the common frog and common toad in Sidmouth.
• There is no suitable habitat for the natterjack toad in the area.
• There are three native newt species in Britain.
• The great crested newt is nationally scarce and subject to focused conservation efforts,
• The smooth newt is the most common species in Sidmouth, especially in garden ponds and can be seen in the Knapp nature pond.

Challenges Facing Amphibians

• The main threats to amphibians are primarily from human activities: habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and invasive species.
• Deforestation and urbanisation destroy amphibian habitats.
• Pollution induces deformities and reproductive issues escalating population decline
• Changing precipitation patterns and temperatures disrupt breeding cycles and impact migration and reproduction.
• Invasive species impact on native amphibians as competitors but also in disease transmission).

Conservation Efforts

• Habitat restoration
• Captive breeding
• Public education
• Sustainable land-use practices

Conclusion

• Amphibians are important indicators of environmental health.
• Dramatic population declines emphasise the urgency of amphibian conservation for overall ecosystem health.
• Conservation programmes (with the support of the public) are vital to both the future of amphibians and to the environment in general