A new study has found that 2% of the world amphibians are already experiencing temperatures beyond their tolerance levels raising concerns about the future of these vulnerable species. The research published in Nature warns that a 2°C rise in global temperatures could be a tipping point, pushing many species toward extinction.
Scientists analyzed 5,203 amphibian species and found that 104 are currently exposed to overheating in shaded terrestrial conditions. If global temperatures increase by 4°C, nearly 7.5% or 391 species could reach their physiological limits, facing severe survival challenges.
Amphibians, which rely on external sources to regulate body heat, are among the most climate-sensitive vertebrates. Over 40% of amphibian species are already classified as threatened, and rising temperatures could accelerate their decline.
The study examined how different microhabitats such as shaded ground, vegetation, and water bodies affect amphibians’ ability to withstand extreme heat. While most amphibians can currently find cooler refuges, habitat destruction, deforestation, urbanization, and prolonged droughts may reduce these safe zones, making them more vulnerable to heat stress.
Patrice Pottier lead researcher from the University of New South Wales, noted that tropical species in the Southern Hemisphere are most at risk, while non-tropical species in the Northern Hemisphere also face serious threats. The study found that beyond 2°C warming, heat stress increases disproportionately, with some species facing overheating for up to 207 days a year under 4°C warming scenarios.
Amphibians exposed to prolonged heat can suffer from reduced activity, reproductive failure and increased mortality. Even before reaching lethal temperature thresholds they may experience devastating physiological impacts.
Scientists emphasize the need for urgent conservation efforts to protect amphibian habitats, preserve water sources, and mitigate climate change effects. Without action local extinctions could disrupt ecosystems, erode genetic diversity, and threaten biodiversity across the planet.