Community & Business
7 March, 2025
New frog species discovered
A NEW species of frog for the Tablelands region has been discovered.
The Atherton Tablelands Whirring Treefrog was discovered as part of a research project by James Cook University in partnership with the University of Newcastle and the South Australian Museum.
The project identified two new species of Whirring Tree Frogs – the other being the Eungella Whirring Treefrog found on the top of the Eungella plateau, west of Mackay.
Originally thought to be one species, the new research discovered they were in fact three distinct species.
The research paper also suggested that the Tablelands species should be nominated as an Endangered Species, and the Eungella frog as Critically Endangered.
The new research used data from genetics, morphology and frog calls to recognise them as distinct species. JCU Associate Professor Conrad Hoskin said it was 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 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 also, 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.
Assoc Prof Hoskin said now the new species had been named and recognised, the next step was to put in submissions to the State and Federal Governments outlining why they should be considered an 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.
“It’s really exciting to recognise them for what they are, and conservation attention will hopefully follow.”
