The small island nation of Bahrain lies in the Arabo-Persian Gulf off the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia. Most of the country comprises low-lying desert and its wetland biodiversity has historically centered around springs or artesian wells. Its amphibian fauna is represented by a single ranid frog species, the Marsh Frog, Pelophylax ridibundus. Over-exploitation of the Damman Aquifer has resulted in salinization and the loss of freshwater springs where the frog lives and breeds. Pollution of bodies of water from a variety of sources has also contributed to significant declines in P. ridibundus and the species is considered Vulnerable. It is protected under national wildlife legislation and captive breeding has been undertaken at Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve, the only terrestrial protected area in Bahrain.