Amphibian Traits and Sociodemographic Factors Shape Local Community Perceptions and Conservation Attitudes in Colombia’s Tropical Dry Forests

Abstract

Background: The global biodiversity crisis has severely affected amphibians, a key group for ecosystem health, yet social perceptions that shape human–amphibian interactions remain poorly documented in the Colombian Caribbean. We investigated how gender, age, and education influence local knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, and willingness to support conservation for 13 amphibian species in tropical dry forest landscapes located between Tayrona National Natural Park and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. We also assessed how perceived morphological traits (body size, skin color, skin type, and leg function) relate to perceptions, recognition of ecosystem services (e.g., “good for the forest” and medicinal uses), and conservation support. Methods: We conducted 200 semi-structured photo-elicitation surveys in rural communities . PERMANOVA tested differences in responses among age, gender and education groups. Distance-based linear models with AICc model selection identified which perceived morphological traits best explained variation in perceptions, attitudes, ecosystem-service recognition, and conservation support. Results: Skin color and leg function were the most influential traits for perceived ecological function, medicinal associations, attitudes, and conservation support. Rhinella horribilis, Dendrobates truncatus, and Boana platanera were the most recognized species, whereas Elachistocleis panamensis had the lowest recognition. Disgust and fear predominated, yet most respondents reported non-harmful reactions (64% would leave the animal undisturbed; 1% reported intent to kill). Support for protecting the 13 species was high (85.5%), although willingness to participate in monitoring was comparatively low, indicating an attitude–action gap. Conservation attitudes varied by gender and were more positive among respondents with higher education. Conclusions: Overall knowledge of amphibians was limited, likely reflecting infrequent or negative encounters and persistent cultural fears. Althought the community recognizes the need for protection, barriers such as fear and limited environmental education remain. D. truncatus and E. panamensis could serve as flagship species for future conservation efforts. Implications for Conservation: The findings highlight the need for inclusive environmental education programs, community-based monitoring, and collaborative networks involving schools, authorities, and local communities, with attention to gender- and education- linked differences in perceptions and engagement to improve local conservation efforts.