Habitat loss: The primary cause of the golden coqui's decline is the loss and fragmentation of its natural habitat. Urban development, agriculture, deforestation, and mining activities have significantly reduced the available habitat for the species. As human populations continue to grow and encroach on natural areas, the golden coqui faces increasing pressure on its living space.
Climate change: Changes in climate patterns, particularly rising temperatures and altered rainfall patterns, are also affecting the golden coqui's survival. The species is highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations and requires a specific range of environmental conditions to thrive. Rising temperatures and changes in precipitation can disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem and make it challenging for the golden coqui to adapt.
Predation: The introduction of non-native predators, such as rats, cats, and mongooses, has further exacerbated the decline of the golden coqui. These predators prey upon the golden coqui and its eggs, reducing the species' reproductive success and survival rates.
Disease: Certain fungal diseases, such as chytridiomycosis, have been identified as a threat to the golden coqui. Chytridiomycosis affects the skin of amphibians, causing skin lesions, electrolyte imbalance, and eventually death. The disease has caused population declines in various amphibian species worldwide and poses a significant risk to the golden coqui as well.
Limited genetic diversity: The golden coqui has a relatively small population size, which increases the risk of inbreeding and reduces genetic diversity. Inbreeding can lead to health problems, reduced reproductive success, and increased susceptibility to diseases, making the species more vulnerable to environmental changes and other stressors.
Over-collection: In the past, the golden coqui was collected for the pet trade, which contributed to population declines. While trade regulations have since been implemented, illegal collection for pets and research purposes continues to pose a threat to the species.
Synergistic effects: These various factors act synergistically to drive the golden coqui towards extinction. Habitat loss, climate change, predation, disease, limited genetic diversity, and over-collection collectively impact the species' survival, making its recovery and conservation efforts extremely challenging.