Impact of solar UV radiation on amphibians: focus on genotoxic stress

Solar UV radiation is one of the most important environmental genotoxic factors. Its incidence increased due to stratospheric ozone depletion, climate changes, and deforestation, and plays a crucial role in the worldwide decline of the populations of amphibians. Even sublethal effects of UV-induced genotoxicity may cause drastic consequences in the performance and fitness of amphibians. We reviewed the existing literature searching for research papers focused on DNA damage (and responses) in various species by environmental relevant UVB and UVA doses. We found twenty one papers relative to this topic, but only four of them concerned direct measurements of DNA lesions in vivo. Finally, we identify knowledge gaps and provide recommendations for future investigations concerning the impact of the genotoxicity induced by sunlight on amphibians.