Amphibians are popular pets whose welfare needs are poorly understood and frequently unmet by owners.
Amphibian welfare in captivity is profoundly affected by husbandry decisions that owners often make without adequate knowledge. Temperature gradients, humidity levels, UV provision for some species, water quality in aquatic setups, and appropriate prey items are all critical determinants of health and wellbeing. Signs of poor welfare in amphibians are often subtle — lethargy, abnormal posture, skin abnormalities — and owners may not recognize them until disease is advanced. Chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis), spread partly through the amphibian trade, is driving wild population collapses globally. The ethical purchase of captive-bred amphibians from reputable breeders, combined with thorough husbandry research before acquisition, is the foundation of responsible amphibian keeping.