Robust bleating tree frog
| Robust bleating tree frog | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification Edit this classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Amphibia |
| Order: | Anura |
| Family: | Hylidae |
| Genus: | Litoria |
| Species: | L. dentata
|
| Binomial name | |
| Litoria dentata (Keferstein, 1868)
| |
| File:Litoria dentata range.PNG | |
| Distribution of the bleating tree frog, including L. balatus and L. quiritatus | |
| Synonyms | |
| |
The robust bleating tree frog (Litoria dentata), also known as Keferstein's tree frog, is a species of tree frog in the subfamily Pelodryadinae. This frog is endemic to coastal eastern Australia, where it ranges from northeastern New South Wales to the NSW/Queensland border. It has also been introduced to Lord Howe Island.[1][2]
Taxonomy
[edit | edit source]Prior to 2021, this species was thought to have a much wider range, from northeastern Victoria to southern Queensland, and was simply known as the bleating tree frog. However, Rowley et al (2021) distinguished three distinct clades within the species, based on genetic divergence, slight morphological differences, and notable differences in vocalizations; the latter were collected via the FrogID Australia citizen science project. Two new species were described from north and south of L. dentata's range: the slender bleating tree frog (L. balatus) to the north and the screaming tree frog (L. quiritatus) to the south. This significantly reduced the known range for L. dentata, although it is known to still be a common and adaptable species.[3][4][5]
Description
[edit | edit source]This species can be distinguished from the two species split off from it by its more robust build compared to L. balatus and a brownish vocal sac that turns dull yellow when fully inflated.[6]
Ecology and behaviour
[edit | edit source]This frog is associated with coastal lagoons, ponds and swamps, in heathland, sclerophyll forest and cleared farmland. The bleating tree frog is well known for its loud, high-pitched call, which can be painful to humans nearby. Males call from vegetation or ground around the breeding site. Mass breeding and calling can take place on warm, wet, overcast nights during spring and summer.
As a pet
[edit | edit source]It is kept as a pet, in Australia this animal may be kept in captivity with the appropriate permit.
References
[edit | edit source]- Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2172: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value). Database entry includes a range map and a brief justification of why this species is of least concern
- Article Road: List of All Frog Breeds: Things You Can Do to Ensure Your Frog Has a Long, Happy and Healthy Life: Bleating Tree Frog
- Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, New South Wales: Amphibian Keeper's Licence: Species Lists
- Cogger, H.G. 1979. Reptiles & Amphibians of Australia. A. H. & A. W. REED PTY LTD. Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2172: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
- 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.
- Frogs Australia Network-frog call available here.
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