Which reptiles and amphibians in the southwestern United States are most vulnerable to climate change?

The desert regions of the arid southwestern United States are home to a wide range of reptile and amphibian species that face continued habitat loss and changing climates. New research published in The Journal of Wildlife Management finds that even under the most optimistic climate change scenario—with declining emissions from 2020 to near zero emissions by 2100—76% of the region may experience a loss of 20% or more of the reptile and amphibian species examined.

The most vulnerable species were those with limited dispersal capabilities—meaning that they cannot move into new suitable areas that would require them to travel long distances. The results may help indicate which types of species should be prioritized for conservation actions.

“Desert regions often get overlooked for conservation work, but there are many species that may face dramatic habitat loss if we don’t look ahead and plan for the future,” said corresponding author Richard D. Inman, PhD, of the U.S. Geological Survey.

URL upon publication: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jwmg.22317

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About the Journal

The Journal of Wildlife Management publishes manuscripts containing information from original research that contributes to basic wildlife science. Suitable topics include investigations into the biology and ecology of wildlife and their habitats that has direct or indirect implications for wildlife management and conservation.

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