Darwin's frog  (Rhinoderma darwinii)

In recent years, Darwin's frog has undergone a worrying decline throughout its range, with some populations in Chile disappearing entirely (1). While in some areas, particularly in the northern part of this species' range, the decline can be attributed to deforestation and replacement of native trees with exotic pine or eucalyptus species, in other regions, which are more remote or protected, the cause is unknown (2). It may, however, be linked to global changes in climate and increased ultraviolet radiation, which are believed to be contributing to the ongoing worldwide decline in amphibians (2) (5).

Darwin's frog is located in several protected areas throughout its range, which are helping to preserve its dwindling habitat. Nevertheless, there is a need for improved maintenance of existing sites, as well as expansion of the protected area network, especially in the more heavily exploited northern parts of this species' range. In order to understand the causes of the unexplained decline of Darwin's frog in apparently suitable areas of habitat, the population must be closely monitored. This should then inform the development of a conservation strategy for this imperilled species (1).