SOS Fire Salamander

The Netherlands is not quickly associated with spectacularly colored reptiles and amphibians, but the fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) shows the diversity of Dutch nature. Unfortunately, populations are decreasing and threats to the population are ongoing. This project aims to protect one of the most beautiful amphibians in the Netherlands.

The fire salamander was found throughout the Netherlands in the recent past and is spread throughout a large part of Europe, where the species is also in decline. As of this moment, only a very small number of these animals occur in the most southern part of Limburg. The species is particularly threatened by a fungal infection (Batrachochytrium) which has spread across many amphibians globally. This fungus has already led to the extinction of several species. It is very important to find out where the fungus comes from and how the animals become infected.