These two vertebrate classes are collectively referred to as herpetofauna, but the focus of general concern has been almost exclusively on amphibians. He said that while studies on both amphibians and reptiles have not been as rigorous as scientists would like, the existing documentation points to a coming crisis situation. The problem is multifaceted, but habitat loss and degradation may be the largest single factor in reptile loss. For even when part of a habitat is protected, such as a wetland, the surrounding terrestrial habitat needed by semiaquatic reptiles often is not. Conservation biologists hold as a basic tenet of ecology that intact habitat is necessary for species persistence and well-being, but habitat destruction is just the beginning of the problem.
Invasive species introduced to new areas can spell real danger for reptiles.
Other problems include environmental pollution, disease, and even the simple presence of humans among a fragile population. The commercial use of reptiles is also cited as a cause for declines. The harvesting of reptiles for pets, food, and for use in folk medicines can result in overcollection. This kind of use affects reptiles more than amphibians. Global climate changes may also present problems for reptiles, according to the BioScience article, and some population declines have been noted for which a cause cannot be discerned.