TITLE:
Edible Amphibians in Kisangani and Its Hinterland, Democratic Republic of the Congo: Diversity, Local Perceptions and Implications for Biological Conservation
AUTHORS:
Loving Musubaho, Léon Iyongo, Jean-Claude Mukinzi, Jasmin Mutahinga, Joël Mapoli, Alice Bulonza, André Lofanga, Gabriel Badjedjea, Kasereka Vitekere, Papy Bambu, Jan Bogaert
KEYWORDS:
Amphibians, Food/Nutrition, Local Knowledge, Conservation, Ethnic Groups, Kisangani
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.13 No.11,
November
4,
2026
ABSTRACT: Human communities’ perceptions toward wildlife are influenced by values, beliefs, and people’s perceptions of local species. This study identified the amphibian species consumed by humans in Kisangani and its hinterland, in comparison with other non-human animal species, with particular emphasis on the factors influencing or discouraging such consumption. During eight-month period, from February to September 2021, we participated in nocturnal capture sessions with hunters, using visual survey, systematic excavation of habitats using a headlamp, and acoustic survey hearing vocalizations along the Congo River, streams, and around swamps. During these nocturnal capture sessions, we also conducted interviews with hunters and additional interviews were conducted the following day with other respondents (consumers or no). A total of 545 respondents were interviewed. An open-ended questionnaire was developed using specimens of the different species in hands, supported by an image-based identification test. The results revealed that, among all amphibian species occurring in the study area, seven (Amietia nutti, Hoplobatrachus occipitalis, Amnirana albolabris (currently accepted as Hylarana albolabris), Ptychadena mascareniensis, P. perreti, Xenopus pygmaeus and X. ruwenzoriensis) are consumed in the study area by local human populations, particularly by the Kumu and Topoke ethnic groups. Methods of frog preservation and preparation vary among individuals. The consumption or avoidance of amphibians is based on traditions, religious and local beliefs about the medicinal properties of amphibians, as well as the perceived deadly danger attributed to some species by different ethnic groups. The findings of this preliminary survey demonstrate the importance of amphibians in the dietary habits of human populations in Kisangani and its hinterland. This suggests that amphibian conservation plans should be adapted to the needs of local communities.