Habitat loss and climate-induced distributional shifts on the Andean Red-spotted glassfrog (Nymphargus grandisonae)

Mateo A. Vega-Yánez; Daniela Franco-Mena; Juan M. Guayasamin; Evanna Jaramillo; Julián A.  Velasco

Habitat loss and climate-induced distributional shifts on the Andean Red-spotted glassfrog (Nymphargus grandisonae)

Autores

Mateo A. Vega-Yánez
Daniela Franco-Mena
Juan M. Guayasamin
Evanna Jaramillo
Julián A. Velasco

Palavras-chave:

Climate change, Biodiversity, Tropical Andes, Amphibians, Habitat loss

Resumo

Climate change and habitat loss are two interrelated dimensions of the current global biodiversity crisis. The Red-spotted glassfrog (Nymphargus grandisonae) inhabits the northern Andes in Colombia and Ecuador. This study analyses time series of habitat loss within the species' current range, using remote sensing data collected between 1985 and 2022. We also report a
new occurrence record in the western foothills of Ecuador. Furthermore, we evaluate potential changes to the climatic suitability of its habitat under a climate change scenario (SSP3-7.0) for the period 2061–2080, using an ecological niche modelling approach. Our results suggest that the species' range could, on average, contract by 45% and shift upwards in elevation by approximately 270 meters. Furthermore, the distribution patterns of the species in the Andean foothills show a high degree of fragmentation. Climate niche analysis shows that the species is highly dependent on humidity and sensitive to temperature fluctuations. In general, models project a decrease in precipitation in the future. Between 1985 and 2022, nearly 32,600 hectares of vegetation cover were lost within the species' range, with the highest rates of loss recorded in Ecuador. These findings highlight the urgent need for conservation strategies that integrate climate change adaptation and habitat protection to reduce the risk of potential extinction.

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