Striped Marsh Frog
(Photograph by Alex Dudley)
Description
The Striped Marsh Frog is an attractive species, its dorsal (upper) surface patterned with a series of dark and light brown stripes. The undersurface is smooth and white. It is a large, ground-dwelling frog which grows to a length of 80 mm.
Breeding
The Striped Marsh Frog breeds from late spring to summer. Eggs hatch about 4 days after laying. The larval stage lasts up to 12 months and tadpoles reach up to 60 mm in length.
Vocalisations
During spring and summer, males call from either the water or concealed sites, such as under leaf litter. The call has a soft, explosive sound. (Audio recordings courtesy of Ron Nagorcka/Central North Field Naturalists)
Distribution and Habitat
In Tasmania, it is an uncommon species, confined to the far north west and north east, as well as King Island. This species is listed as Endangered because of its restricted Tasmanian distribution, which may be due to the alteration and loss of its habitat. On mainland Australia, in contrast, it is widespread and common along the eastern seaboard.