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Epilogue: Lessons yet to be learned

By: , , , and 
Edited by: Donald W. Sparling, Greg L. Linder, and Christine A. Bishop

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Abstract

This chapter provides a summary of the book Ecotoxicology of Amphibians and Reptiles edited by Sparling, Linder and Bishop. In addition to the comparative lack of information on effects and residue burdens of known contaminants in amphibians and reptiles, there is a plethora of new chemicals being produced and released into the environment on which no data exist at all. According to the Environmental Defense Fund, there are some 75,000 chemicals produced each year, not including pesticides. Of these, 3,000 are produced in high volumes. Of the high volume chemicals, only 29% have been examined for effects of human health and only 5% have been examined for effects on the environment and wildlife. Even of these 150 chemicals, only a small handful have been examined in amphibians or reptiles. Thus there is a tremendous lack of information on the effects of environmental contaminants on these vertebrates. This chapter outlines the major research needs in the area of ecotoxicology of amphibians and reptiles and lists several reasons why these animals would make excellent subjects for monitoring the effects of contaminants.

Suggested Citation

Sparling, D.W., Bishop, C., Pauli, B., Money, S., 2000, Epilogue: Lessons yet to be learned, chap. of Ecotoxicology of Amphibians and Reptiles, p. 811-822.

Publication type Book chapter
Publication Subtype Book Chapter
Title Epilogue: Lessons yet to be learned
ISBN 9781880611289
Year Published 2000
Language English
Publisher Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry
Publisher location Pensacola, FL.
Contributing office(s) Patuxent Wildlife Research Center
Description 12 p.
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Subtype Monograph
Larger Work Title Ecotoxicology of Amphibians and Reptiles
First page 811
Last page 822
Additional publication details