The Tasmanian Froglet, (Crinia tasmaniensis) is a species of ground-dwelling frog that occurs only in Tasmania

Tasmania

Tasmania is an Australian island and state. It is south of the continent, separated by Bass Strait. The state includes the island of Tasmania—the 26th largest island in the world—and the surrounding islands. The state has a population of 507,626 , of whom almost half reside in the greater Hobart...

, Australia.

Physical description

This is a fairly small species of frog, up to about 30mm. It is variable, but is generally brown (dark to reddish) or grey and can have spots or blotches of another colour, at times this species can be completely dark brown or black, with no variation in colour throughout the dorsal surface. The dorsal surface can be bumpy or smooth. There is often a reddish stripe present from the nostril down the side. The ventral surface is mostly white, however it has some red and dark blotches as well as red in the thighs.

Ecology and behaviour

This species of frog is only found in Tasmania. It inhabits shallow streams, temporary ponds and puddles, dams, swamps and soaks, mostly at higher altitudes throughout most of the state. It is frequently encountered in the west of the state. It can be found in rainforest, cleared, woodland and alpine habitats.

Males make a lamb like call, baaahh-ahh-aahh, from land beside water or while floating in water, mainly in spring and summer.

Up to 100 eggs are laid in still water all year round. The eggs have rather large capsules, about 7mm. Tadpoles are brown-grey and reach 30mm in length. Development takes about 3 months and metamorph are about 10mm and resemble the adult.

This is one of only three species of frogs endemic to Tasmania.

Sources

• Frogs Australia Network-frog call available here.
• Anstis, M. 2002. Tadpoles of South-eastern Australia. Reed New Holland: Sydney.
• Robinson, M. 2002. A Field Guide to Frogs of Australia. Australian Museum/Reed New Holland: Sydney.