Global Increases in Ultraviolet B Radiation: Potential Impacts on Amphibian Development and Metamorphosis

Levels of ultraviolet B radiation (UVBR) reaching the Earth’s surface have increased since the 1970s as a result of stratospheric ozone depletion caused by the emission of ozone‐depleting substances (ODSs) such as chlorofluorocarbons. Despite international agreements to phase out harmful ODSs, these...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Physiological and biochemical zoology 2008-11, Vol.81 (6), p.743-761
Main Authors: Croteau, M. C., Davidson, M. A., Lean, D. R. S., Trudeau, V. L.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Acetates
Amphibia
Amphibians
Amphibians - growth & development
Animals
Depopulation
Eggs
Embryos
Freshwater
Larva - growth & development
Larva - radiation effects
Metamorphosis
Metamorphosis, Biological - radiation effects
Ozone
Ozone depletion
Tadpoles
Ultraviolet Rays - adverse effects
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Summary:Levels of ultraviolet B radiation (UVBR) reaching the Earth’s surface have increased since the 1970s as a result of stratospheric ozone depletion caused by the emission of ozone‐depleting substances (ODSs) such as chlorofluorocarbons. Despite international agreements to phase out harmful ODSs, these substances are persistent, and even under the most optimistic scenarios, stratospheric ozone levels will not return to pre‐1980 levels for several decades. Furthermore, climate change may enhance chemical stratospheric ozone depletion. Global phenomena such as climate change, ozone depletion, and acidification of aquatic ecosystems interact to modify dissolved organic carbon levels in aquatic systems, thereby increasing the penetration of UVBR. Since amphibians inhabit both aquatic and terrestrial habitats and have unshelled eggs and permeable skin, they are vulnerable to changes in environmental conditions and habitat quality. Increased exposure of amphibians to UVBR can produce lethal and sublethal effects, especially in individuals that do not possess adequate defense mechanisms to protect themselves. In this article, we discuss worldwide increases in UVBR and the adverse effects of UVBR exposure on amphibians. Specifically, studies on the effects of UVBR on amphibian development and metamorphosis are summarized, and possible mechanisms of thyroid system disruption caused by UVBR exposure are considered.
ISSN:1522-2152
1537-5293
DOI:10.1086/591949