Climate chaos: Examining the pressures of climate change on Eurasian amphibians and reptiles

Abstract

Amphibians and reptiles are highly vulnerable to climate change because of their ectothermic nature and dependence on specific environmental conditions. Across the entire Eurasian continent, climatic conditions range from the Mediterranean to the Arctic. The far-reaching consequences of climate change threaten the conservation of these species. These are such factors as a rise in temperature, a change in precipitation patterns and the consequent shift of their distribution.

This review summarises recent literature on climate change and its effects on reptiles and amphibians in Eurasia. It also discusses phenomena such as changes in species distribution, habitat loss/destruction, changes in phenology and disease risk. The study shows that species such as montane or wetland-dependent amphibians, which have a limited ability to disperse, are particularly vulnerable. It also examines the contribution of thermal stress, fluctuations in prey availability and the increasing presence of invasive species as climate-related factors affecting population dynamics. The review highlights conservation actions that focus on adapting to climate change, habitat connectivity and genetic diversity to mitigate the impacts of climate change on species. This comprehensive assessment highlights the need for region-specific conservation efforts to address the increasing threats posed by climate change to the herpetofauna of Eurasia.