Litoria rothii (De Vis, 1884)

Size

Roth's tree frog (Litoria rothii) is a medium-sized frog that reaches a maximum length of 5.7 cm (2.2 in).

Body Shape

It has an elongated body, a small head, and large eyes.

Toe Pad Morphology

As an arboreal species, its toe pads are wider than its fingers.

Dorsal Coloration

The dorsal surface ranges from dull grey to brown, and may be marked with dark brown blotches.

Ventral Extremity Coloration

The inner thighs and armpits are black, blotched with bright yellow or orange.

Tympanum Structure

The tympanum is visible, with a fold of skin covering its top portion.

Species Distinguishing Features

Two features set this species apart from Peron's tree frog and Tyler's tree frog: the upper half of the iris is deep red, and the dorsal surface has no emerald green flecks.

Breeding Period

Roth's tree frog breeds during the wet season, from November to March.

Call Characteristics

Its call consists of seven to nine loud, chuckling or cackling sounds that resemble laughter.

Reproduction and Development

Eggs are laid in temporary pools of water, and tadpoles take a maximum of 65 days to complete metamorphosis.

Color Change Ability

The color of Roth's tree frog is extremely variable, and can change from pale grey to dark brown within just a few hours.

Diurnal Color Pattern

Typically, individuals are grey during the day while basking in the sun, and turn brown at night.