Limnodynastes terraereginae

Conservation Status

Calling Period

Description

Until recently, this species was considered to be widespread, from Cape York in North Queensland to NSW, but research led by the Australian Museum and published in 2024 has revealed that this species is is actually restricted to Cape York, and more southern populations are in fact a distinct species, Limnodynastes grayi. FrogID recordings were core to this research.

A very large species of frog reaching up to 9.4 cm in body length. Dorsal surface with light brown base with strong dark brown to black blotching, with orange and yellow patches on the sides. The belly is cream-white and edged with yellow, lacking any pattern. There are bright magenta patches on the inner thighs and groin. The pupil is nearly round and the iris is gold. Fingers are unwebbed and toes are slightly webbed, both without discs.

Breeding Biology

Poorly known but presumably the eggs are laid as a foamy mass on the surface of ponds, dams, swamps, roadside ditches, and creek pools.

Similar Species

Looks similar to Limnodynastes grayi, Limnodynastes dumerilii and Limnodynastes interioris from which it can be easily identified based on distribution. In addition, L. terraereginae can be distinguished from Limnodynastes grayi by its larger size, distinct blotched pattern on the back and magenta (vs scarlet) blotches in the groin and legs. Limnodynastes terraereginae can be further distinguished from Limnodynastes dumerilii and Limnodynastes interioris by the presence (vs absence) of magenta blotches in the groin and legs.