VU

Melanophryniscus dorsalis

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Melanophryniscus dorsalis faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching activities that fragment and degrade its specialized grassland habitats. The species' restricted range in the Pampas region makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat conversion, while pollution from agricultural runoff and pesticide use further threatens local populations. Climate change poses an additional risk by altering the moisture regimes essential for this toad's breeding cycles.

Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits temperate grasslands and open savannas of the Pampas region, particularly favoring areas with temporary pools and wetlands for breeding. It occurs in both natural grasslands and modified pastoral landscapes, typically at elevations below 200 meters.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Melanophryniscus dorsalis classified as Vulnerable?
Melanophryniscus dorsalis is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Melanophryniscus dorsalis faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching activities that fragment and degrade its specialized grassland habitats. The species' restricted range in the Pampas region makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat conversion, while pollution from agricultural runoff and pesticide use further threatens local populations. Climate change poses an additional risk by altering the moisture regimes essential for this toad's breeding cycles.
Where does Melanophryniscus dorsalis live?
Melanophryniscus dorsalis occurs in Argentina, Brazil, and United States. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Melanophryniscus dorsalis?
The main threats to Melanophryniscus dorsalis are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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