Diversity assessment of amphibians at Lata Telaga Bijih Tanah Merah, Kelantan

This study assessed the diversity and abundance of amphibians at Lata Telaga Bijih, Tanah Merah, Kelantan, through nocturnal field surveys. A total of 157 individuals from 16 species across six families were recorded. The Shannon-Wiener Index (H’) ranged from 0.99 to 2.13, indicating moderate to high diversity, with Site F exhibiting the highest diversity (H’ = 2.13). The Simpson’s Dominance Index (D) ranged from 0.56 to 0.88, with Site F showing the highest dominance (D = 0.88), suggesting a community dominated by a few abundant species. Generalist species, particularly Phrynoidis aspera, dominated the community, indicating some habitat disturbance. Several species, including Odorrana hosii and Limnonectes blythii, protected under Malaysian law, were also recorded, emphasizing the conservation value of the area. The study highlighted habitat heterogeneity as a key factor influencing species richness. Findings provide essential data for regional biodiversity management and conservation.