Abstract

Amphibians inhabiting high-altitude environments face a suite of extreme challenges, including hypoxia (low oxygen levels), cold temperatures, increased ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and seasonal food scarcity. Over evolutionary time, these ectothermic vertebrates have developed a remarkable array of physiological, biochemical, morphological, and behavioral adaptations to survive and reproduce in such harsh conditions. This research paper synthesizes current knowledge on the physiological adaptations of amphibians in high-altitude habitats, integrating findings from hematology, metabolic regulation, antioxidant defenses, thermal tolerance, and behavioral strategies. Drawing on case studies from the Himalayas, Andes, Tibetan Plateau, and other mountain systems, the paper explores the mechanisms underlying these adaptations and discusses their ecological and evolutionary significance in the context of environmental change.