EFFECTS OF HIGH TEMPERATURES ON AMPHIBIAN PHYSIOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

This study explores how rising temperatures affect amphibians' bodies and behaviors, particularly consideringclimate change. We rigorously reviewed existing research both experimental and observational studies across allamphibian types following established PRISMA guidelines. Our analysis focused on how higher temperaturesimpact key aspects of amphibian biology, including their metabolism, immune systems, growth, activity levels,foraging success, and reproduction. Our analysis reveals significant physiological stress responses, includingincreased metabolic rates and corticosterone levels, reduced growth, and impaired reproductive success at elevatedtemperatures. Behavioral adaptations, such as thermal avoidance and altered activity patterns, were also observed,but these responses only partially mitigated the negative physiological impacts. Species with narrower thermaltolerances exhibited greater vulnerability to high temperatures. This synthesis highlights the significant threatposed by climate change to amphibian populations and underscores the need for targeted conservation strategiesto mitigate the effects of rising temperatures on these ecologically important vertebrates. The findings emphasizethe urgency of addressing climate change and implementing effective conservation measures to protect amphibianbiodiversity.