A new study analyzing over 5,000 marine islands and 1,924 amphibian species found that factors like island size, distance from the mainland, and productivity are important but vary by climate and type of diversity measured. The research challenges the idea that any single theory fully explains amphibian species richness, showing instead that the two main biodiversity theories are complementary and context-dependent.

Users largely agree that the study clarifies the role of distance, island size, and productivity in amphibian diversity, but some argue the conclusions are not groundbreaking, as the theories were already known. Others, like Raoni Rebouças, highlight the significance of amphibians' inability to tolerate salinity, which makes marine islands effectively isolated. This insight is seen as a key factor in explaining biodiversity patterns.

The community consensus is that the study provides a nuanced understanding of amphibian diversity on marine islands, emphasizing the need for further research on historical factors and river islands. However, there is a divide between those who see the study as a minor update and those who view it as a significant contribution to the field, particularly due to the unique ecological context of amphibians.