Gathering the evidence needed to conserve critical habitat for Vietnam’s most threatened amphibians

© Benjamin Tapley / ZSL

The emergency

The habitat of these two frog species is facing threats associated with tourism. There is garbage and run off from a campsite used by tourists wanting to climb Mount Fansipan, Viet Nam’s highest mountain. There is also significant gravel mining for infrastructure projects which removes key habitats needed for tadpole survival and may also cause siltation and sediment suspension.

Given the sensitivity of the two ASAP amphibian species to habitat degradation, there was an urgent need to collect evidence to inform stakeholders and decision-makers regarding the need to protect the species’ critical habitat. 

Results

Surveys in Mount Fansipan provided information and data on the status of these two species, threats, and population estimates. The latter was important for identifying possible consequences of management decisions regarding habitat disturbance or loss through gravel mining. Recommendations were provided to the local authorities who verbally agreed to reduce gravel mining and protect sites that support the two frog species. 

Reports

AT A GLANCE

Organisation: Zoological Society of London

Country: Vietnam

Year project started: 2021

Species: Botsford's Leaf Litter Frog, Sterling's Toothed Toad

Supported by: Fondation Segré