Poster

Title: Amphibians of Honduras: a critically endangered fauna of regional and global biodiversity significance

Authors:
James Austin, University of Florida
Ileana R. Luque-Montes
Josiah Townsend, University of Florida
Larry Wilson, Escuela Agrícola Panamericana Zamorano

Abstract:
Honduras is home to over 125 species of amphibians, of which more than 32% are endemic to that country, including a salamander fauna that is nearly 60% endemic. Despite over 40 years of research in Honduras new species continue to be described, including the recent discovery of at least six new species of highland salamanders. Alarmingly, over 27% of all amphibians in Honduras are classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, and a number are likely extinct. Threats are primarily associated with rapid habitat loss and amphibian disease in some of the most critical areas of endemism in the country. Our recent assessment of all the Critically Endangered amphibian species and sites in Honduras reveals the critical need for immediate action on all levels, local, national, and regional, in order to preserve the continued survival of this ancient part of the Honduran patrimony. Effort to preserve Honduran biodiversity includes much needed inventorying of critical habitats, training and education of Honduran biologists, and collaboration with local community organizers. We present efforts on each of these fronts and highlights successes and potential limitations of such efforts.