Variation in the Demographic Structure of the Viviparous Toad Nimbaphrynoides occidentalis (Anura: Bufonidae) before and after a Fire in the Altimontane Grasslands of the Mount Nimba Integral Nature Reserve, Westen Côte d’Ivoire

A severe fire in the Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve led to a 74% decline in the population of the critically endangered viviparous western toad (Nimbaphrynoides occidentalis), with survivors predominantly found in grassland habitats. Before the fire, the species showed a balanced demographic structure, but post-fire surveys revealed a dramatic increase in juvenile dominance (>80%) and a significant drop in breeding adults. The study suggests that high-intensity fires cause substantial mortality, particularly among vulnerable age classes, and highlight grasslands as crucial refuges for survival. Conducted over 640 person-hours with standardized transect surveys, this research underscores the urgent need for fire management strategies to protect this unique species in its fragile ecosystem.

KANGA, K. P., KONAN, J.-C. B. Y. N., KOUADIO, A. L., & KIEN, K. B. (2026). Variation in the Demographic Structure of the Viviparous Toad Nimbaphrynoides occidentalis (Anura: Bufonidae) before and after a Fire in the Altimontane Grasslands of the Mount Nimba Integral Nature Reserve, Westen Côte d’Ivoire. Journal of Biology and Nature, 18(2), 278–291. https://doi.org/10.56557/joban/2026/v18i210881