Rare Frog Species Uncovered In North Queensland

In an exciting leap forward for wildlife discovery, a previously unknown species of Whirring Tree Frogs has been identified right here in the region, thanks to ground-breaking research by James Cook University, the University of Newcastle, and the South Australian Museum.

Originally thought to be one species, the new research discovered they were in fact three distinct species, with the Eungella Whirring Treefrog found on the top of the Eungella plateau, west of Mackay, and the Atherton Tablelands Whirring Treefrog found in the mountains south-west of Cairns.

The new research used data from genetics, morphology and frog calls to recognise them as distinct species.

JCU Associate Professor Conrad Hoskin said it’s an exciting discovery that could be crucial to the species’ protection.

“When they were all grouped together as one, you can’t see the significance of the fact that that the two northern populations are distinct species,” he said.

“They are hidden away, lumped in another species, and that means you don't recognise that Eungella and the Wet Tropics each have yet another highly localised species.

“And most importantly, you don't recognise them for conservation when they are contained within another species name. Now that they are named, we can assess their conservation status and needs.

“Both species should be recognised as endangered species. The Eungella species, in particular, has a tiny distribution with very little elevational space and is certainly under threat.”

Both species are a yellowish-brown colour, with flashy orange markings and black spots on their legs. Populations of these treefrogs were previously assumed to represent a more widespread species in south- east Queensland and north-east New South Wales.

Associate Professor Hoskin said now the new species have been named and recognised, the next step is to put in submissions to the state and federal governments outlining why they should be considered endangered species.

“These beautiful frog species are now pinned to the tops of some of Queensland’s highest mountain areas and are under serious threat from climate change,” he said.

“In the paper, we suggest that the Atherton Tablelands species should be nominated for Endangered, and the Eungella even a higher level, which is Critically Endangered.

“It's really exciting to recognise them for what they are, and conservation attention will hopefully follow.”

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Two new species of Whirring Tree Frogs have been discovered in Eungella, previously mistaken as one, with findings now highlighting their distinct status for conservation efforts. Photos supplied

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