Frogs

Growling Grass Frogs

The Growling Grass Frog (Litoria raniformis), also known as the Southern Bell Frog, is a large and distinctive species of frog native to southeastern Australia, including parts of Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia. Here are some key features and reasons for its declining numbers:

Characteristics of the Growling Grass Frog:

• Appearance: Adult Growling Grass Frogs are relatively large, reaching up to 10 centimeters in length. They have a robust body and are typically green or brown with distinctive dark markings.
• Call: The name "Growling Grass Frog" comes from its distinctive call, which sounds like a low growl or a series of guttural grunts.
• Habitat: They inhabit a range of wetland habitats, including swamps, ponds, and slow-flowing streams. They are particularly associated with permanent water bodies.
• Reasons for Population Decline:

The Growling Grass Frog has experienced a significant decline in numbers, and several factors contribute to this decline:

• • Habitat Loss and Degradation: Urbanization and agricultural development have led to the loss and fragmentation of their natural habitats. Drainage of wetlands and alteration of water courses have negatively impacted the availability of suitable breeding and foraging grounds.
  • Introduced Species: The introduction of non-native species, such as predatory fish and amphibian diseases, has had detrimental effects on the Growling Grass Frog population. These introduced species can compete for resources and pose direct threats to the frogs.
  • Water Quality: Changes in water quality, including pollution from agricultural runoff and urban activities, can impact the health of aquatic ecosystems. Growling Grass Frogs are particularly sensitive to water quality changes.
  • Climate Change: Altered weather patterns, changes in temperature, and shifts in precipitation can affect the availability and suitability of breeding habitats for these frogs.
  • Chytrid Fungus: Amphibian chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) is a pathogenic fungus responsible for declines in amphibian populations worldwide, including the Growling Grass Frog.

Conservation efforts are underway to address these threats and protect the remaining populations of the Growling Grass Frog. These efforts include habitat restoration, captive breeding programs, and research to better understand and mitigate the factors contributing to their decline.

Designing wetlands for Growling Grass Frogs

• Full sun - especially from the East, North and the West.
• Permanent water
• Water ribbons for basking, calling and hiding from predators. All ribbon-like aquatic plants are suitable. Landscape should have minimal shade over ponds.
• Water level adjustment - for plants, maintenance and to remove problem aquatic species (Mosquito fish, carp)
• Salt addition helps improve resistance to Chytrid fungus
• Warmer water temperatures (25-26 degC) also helps to kill the Chytrid fungus
• Protection from predation by snakes and birds. Metal mesh over the pond can provide suitable protection.
• Chain of ponds - frogs can travel overland, but need refuges and permanent water bodies. Multiple ponds are beneficial
• Overland irrigation - water over land also helps frogs travel and search for food on land
• Rocks in ponds and in landscape - to provide protection, thermal mass (rocks heat up slowly and retain heat)

Control and Monitoring Systems for Ponds

• Water level - need to fluctuate like natural wetlands.
• Temperature sensor - aim for optimal temperature - 25-26degC
• Conductivity - salt levels in pond
• Rainwater tank - to provide a larger offline water storage
• Carbon filter - to remove urban pollutants from the water (pesticides, excessive nutrients, heavy metals)

Water Ribbons

Cycnogeton procerum, commonly known as Water Ribbons, is a aquatic plant native to Australia. It's characterized by its long, ribbon-like leaves and is often found in freshwater habitats. While there may not be an exact equivalent to Water Ribbons, there are several other Australian aquatic plants that you might find interesting for aquatic environments. Here are a few examples:

Water Lillies

Nymphaea spp. (Water Lilies): Various species of water lilies are found in Australia. They have floating leaves and beautiful flowers. Nymphaea gigantea, for example, is a species native to Australia.

Milfoils

Myriophyllum spp. (Milfoils): Milfoils are common submerged aquatic plants. They have finely divided leaves and are known for their oxygenating properties. Myriophyllum crispatum is one such species found in Australia.

Eelgrass

Vallisneria spp. (Eelgrass or Tapegrass): Vallisneria species are submerged aquatic plants with long, ribbon-like leaves. Vallisneria americana is found in Australia, and while it's not native, it has become established in various water bodies.

Spike Rushes

Eleocharis spp. (Spike Rushes): Some species of Eleocharis, commonly known as spike rushes, can be found in Australian wetlands. They often have grass-like stems and are adapted to a variety of aquatic environments.

Native Lobelias

Lobelia spp. (Native Lobelias): Some native Lobelia species in Australia are adapted to aquatic habitats. They often have attractive flowers and can be found in or near water. When selecting aquatic plants, it's essential to consider the specific conditions of your water feature, such as sunlight, water depth, and temperature.