Tinkling Frog
Taudactylus rheophilus
Australia's Threatened Species Category
Critically Endangered
Listed since: 24/11/2021
IUCN's Threatened Species Category
Critically Endangered
Listed since: 10/02/2021
Population trend: Unknown
Other names: Northern Tinker Frog
Priority Species? No
The Australian government's Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032 selected over 100 priority species derive from consultation with threatened species experts and the wider community. While all species are important, focusing on a limited number of species can help target effort and resources so that outcomes can be achieved, measured and shared.
Description
The Tinkling Frog is endemic to the Wet Tropics of far north Queensland, having only been found in wet sloping mountain forests. It is a stream-dwelling frog, found in fast-flowing water, where it shelters under rocks and roots of shrubs.
Threats
The causes of the population decline to possible extinction of the Tinkling Frog are uncertain, however, it is believed that disease (chytridiomycosis) is the major factor, as is the explanation of other frog species, particularly at higher elevations in the Wet Tropics. Habitat loss is still a major threat through climate change
and invasive species, including rooting and wallowing by feral pigs and introduced fish are a likely threat to eggs and tadpoles. Yellow crazy ants are a potential future threat as they spread in to the Wet Tropics.
Quollity Conservation Hub's Vulnerability Score:
58
To help compare the relative vulnerability of different species, we have developed a scoring system based on biological and ecological characteristics that influence a species' ability to survive and recover from environmental change and natural disasters.
The framework is adapted from assessment methods used by conservation experts following the Black Summer bushfires to help identify species most in need of conservation action, research, and recovery funding.
Each species is assessed using a range of factors, including its conservation status, lifespan, reproductive rate, habitat and dietary requirements, ability to disperse or recover after fire, and the number and severity of threats it faces.
In general, the higher a species' score, the greater its overall vulnerability and risk of decline or extinction.
Like all conservation assessments, this scoring system is limited by the information currently available. Many threatened species remain poorly studied and receive limited research funding, meaning some assessments rely on the best available scientific knowledge or information from closely related species. As new research becomes available, scores may be updated to reflect our improved understanding.
Average life span:
Number of young produced each year:
Number of breeding events each year:
Minmum sexual maturity age:
> 5yrs and < 10yrs
< 100
Unknown
3 - 5yrs
DCCEEW - Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
SPRAT - DCCEEW Species Profile and Threats Database