Experiences in Conservation Planning for Amphibians in the Andean Region

Abstract

Conservation planning is a key process to both chart a clearer and more effective path toward biodiversity conservation and to engage relevant stakeholders for their full and committed participation in executing a coordinated plan. Amphibians are the most threatened vertebrate class on Earth, with 41% facing extinction and many experiencing population declines, as noted by The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The Andes are a hotspot for amphibian species richness, threatened species, and endemism, making it a priority region to plan for amphibian conservation. There have been several higher-level amphibian-focused conservation plans produced for the countries of the region, but to date there has not been a concerted effort to understand the broader landscape of amphibian action planning for the Andean countries. Herein we examine the higher-level species conservation planning documents dedicated to amphibians inhabiting the Andes region, focusing on the scope, period covered, methodological approach, stakeholder participation and engagement, funding, and follow-up subsequent to the release of a plan. We conclude with recommendations for future conservation planning endeavors, and considering establishing a feedback process with the updated global Amphibian Conservation Action Plan.