Taudactylus diurnus


Southern Day Frog

Photos

  • Taudactylus diurnus
    Photo: Hal Cogger

Distribution

Distribution map for Taudactylus diurnus
Formerly common in the Blackall, Conondale, and D'Aguilar Ranges of southeast QLD in the early 1970's, but has likely become extinct due to the amphibian chytrid fungus. It has not been seen since 1979.

Conservation Status

What does it mean?

Federal Conservation Status (EPBC Act)

Extinct

IUCN Red List

Extinct

Photos

  • Taudactylus diurnus
    Photo: Hal Cogger

Calling Period

Species Information

Description

A small species of frog that reached up to 3 cm in body length. It had a grey or dark brown back, with darker patches. There was a dark stripe from the eye to the shoulder. There was also often a dark H-shaped marking between the shoulders, and a horizontal stripe between the eyes. The belly was white with dark grey-brown spots; the male had a darker throat. Fingers and toes were unwebbed, both with small discs. The male lacked a vocal sac, which made the call quiet.

Habitats

Occurred near rocky streams in mountainous rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest.

Breeding Biology

Eggs were laid as a small cluster attached to rocks under the surface of the water. Only preserved tadpoles have been examined, with a total length of 3 cm and dark brown colour. They often remained at the bottom of water bodies, and used their mouthparts to stick to rocks in order to avoid being swept away by flowing water. It is unknown how long they took to develop into frogs. Breeding was recorded during spring to summer.

Similar Species

Looks similar to Crinia deserticola, Crinia parinsignifera, Crinia signifera, and Crinia tinnula in its former distribution, but all of these species lack finger and toe discs.