Anurans in forest fragments along the upper Glória River, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

The Brazilian Atlantic Forest is a biodiversity hotspot, harboring many endemic species threatened by
anthropogenic actions. Although less than 15% of the natural vegetation remains, this biome currently supports more
than 600 amphibian species, representing more than half of Brazilian amphibian diversity. However, a notable lack of
information regarding the richness and distribution of this taxonomic group in this biome persists. To fill in some gaps
in our knowledge, we provide a checklist of anurans from a highly fragmented unprotected area of the Atlantic Forest
in southeastern Brazil. Through fieldwork and bibliographic review, we recorded 44 species in the area, a noteworthy
assemblage, especially when compared with the nearest protected area, which harbors 58 species. Additionally, we
provide novel data about the critically endangered Garcia’s Small Frog (Ischnocnema garciai), discuss potential impacts
related to the presence of American Bullfrogs (Aquarana catesbeiana) in the area, and document amphibian mortality
due to electric fences. In summary, we show that even fragmented and unprotected areas of the Atlantic Forest still
harbor substantial anuran diversity.