IUCN Species Survival Commission Amphibian Specialist Group launches Eastern Asian Salamander Task Force

The IUCN Species Survival Commission Amphibian Specialist Group provides the scientific foundation for action to conserve amphibians. This is achieved through several approaches, including Task Forces, which are responsible for a specific taxonomic, regional or thematic focus.

Globally, 60% of the Caudata are threatened, in particular by invasive species, chytridiomycosis, habitat loss and degradation, exploitation and climate change. In eastern Asia, > 65% are threatened, with one species already extinct. In view of this, together with the likelihood of threats increasing and the need for taxonomic evaluations, the Amphibian Specialist Group established the Eastern Asian Salamander Task Force in May 2024.

The geographical scope of the Task Force ranges from easternmost Russia to westernmost Iran, and south to Thailand, an area that encompasses 187 species: all Hynobiidae (99 species), and subsets of Salamandridae (82), Cryptobranchidae (5) and Plethodontidae (1). Salamandrinae from western Asia are not included as they are more closely related to European species, for which there are different conservation concerns. See iucn-amphibians.org for full details of geographical and taxonomic scope.

The goal of the Task Force is to identify the actions required to address the threats to Caudata in the region, through scientific research and the implementation of science-based conservation plans at the regional or species level. In addition, the Task Force will establish partnerships with local communities, stakeholders and governments to raise awareness and garner support for salamander conservation, and facilitate coordinated and collaborative actions across the region. Some of the first actions to be taken are to collect data to inform threat assessments, highlight lineages in urgent need of taxonomic research, and lead action planning for Critically Endangered and Endangered species.

We anticipate that members of the Task Force will include scholars, conservationists and other professionals. If you are interested in joining the Task Force please contact the corresponding author (AB) for more information.