James Watuwa
Mgahinga sits in the Albertine Rift, a global biodiversity hotspot where many species have small ranges and are sensitive to habitat change (Plumptre et al., 2021; Ayebare et al., 2018). The Karisimbi treefrog (Leptopelis karissimbensis) is a high-elevation species linked to moist montane habitats and wetlands, and it is threatened by land conversion and habitat loss in parts of its range (IUCN SSC Amphibian Specialist Group, 2016). Around Mgahinga, most households rely on smallholder farming, and the park boundary is bordered by cultivated land, so conservation outcomes depend on how land is managed outside the park (CARE, IGCP & WCS, 2012; Uganda Wildlife Authority, 2014).
This project addresses two practical problems:
First, forest edge and riparian habitats that support amphibians are being degraded by clearing, erosion, and wetland disturbance linked to agriculture (Plumptre et al., 2016; Plumptre et al., 2021).
Second, pesticide use can affect amphibians through drift and runoff. Evidence syntheses show chemical pollutants have overall negative effects on amphibians, and pesticides can interact with other stressors that drive declines (Egea-Serrano et al., 2012; Battaglin et al., 2016).
The work is relevant to local communities because healthier riparian zones reduce erosion and protect water sources, and safer pest management can lower costs and exposure risks while maintaining yields (Elmadani et al., 2024). We will also train community monitors, because well designed community monitoring can produce usable local data and strengthen stewardship when results are fed back into decisions (Danielsen et al., 2022)