Amphibians

There are around 7,800 recognised species of amphibians around the globe from three orders:

• The Anura (frogs and toads) of around 6,900 species;
• The Caudata or Urodeles (newts and salamanders) of around 700 species; and
• The Gymniophiona (caecilians) of around 200 species.

• They play an important role in nature as both predator and prey, sustaining the delicate balance of nature.
• They eat pest invertebrates, benefitting successful agriculture around the world and minimising the spread of disease, including malaria.
• The skin of amphibians has substances that protect them frm some microbes and viruses. This fofers possible medical cures for a variety of human diseases.
• Frogs have held a special place in various human cultures for centuries, cherished as agents of life and good luck.