Amphibians are experiencing a global extinction crisis driven by chytrid fungus and habitat loss. Captive programmes play an increasingly vital conservation role but face significant welfare challenges.
Captive amphibian welfare is underresearched and underregulated. The diversity of amphibian biology — from fully aquatic to arboreal to burrowing species — means welfare requirements vary enormously and cannot be generalised. Many facilities, including zoos with otherwise strong welfare programmes, house amphibians in conditions that provide minimal environmental complexity. Temperature deviations outside narrow tolerances cause chronic physiological stress. The conservation importance of captive assurance colonies creates pressure to accept welfare compromises that would be rejected for mammals; this tension requires honest acknowledgement and efforts to improve conditions alongside conservation goals.