- Darwin’s frog (Rhinoderma darwinii) – This species is endemic to Chile and Argentina, and it is named after Charles Darwin. It is critically endangered, and its population has been declining due to habitat loss and a fungal disease called chytridiomycosis.
- Southern toad (Rhinella spinulosa) – This species is also known as the Chilean giant toad, and it is the largest amphibian in Chile. It is an important predator in the lake’s ecosystem, and it helps control the population of insects and other invertebrates.
- Chilean frog (Calyptocephalella gayi) – This species is also endemic to Chile, and it is a semi-aquatic frog that lives near streams and lakes. It is an important indicator species, which means that its presence or absence can indicate the health of the ecosystem.
It is important to protect these amphibians and their habitats because they play a vital role in the lake’s ecosystem. Amphibians are often referred to as “indicator species” because they are sensitive to changes in the environment, such as pollution or habitat destruction. If the amphibian population declines, it could be a sign that the ecosystem is in trouble. Additionally, amphibians are important predators and prey in their respective ecosystems, and their disappearance could have cascading effects on the food chain. Furthermore, some amphibians are also important sources of medicine, as they produce compounds that have been used to treat a variety of ailments. By protecting amphibians, we are not only safeguarding the health of the ecosystem, but also potentially discovering new medicines that could benefit humans.
