Ranoidea lesueurii (Duméril & Bibron, 1841)

Species Introduction

Lesueur's frog (Ranoidea lesueurii) is a moderately large frog species.

Size

Females of the species grow to 7 cm (2.8 in), while males reach approximately 4.5 cm (1.8 in).

Dorsal Coloration

The dorsal (upper) surface of this frog ranges in color from pale to dark brown; during the breeding season, adult males turn bright yellow.

Dorsal Markings

Darker patches are often present on the frog's back, and a distinct dark stripe runs from the snout down to the shoulder.

Leg Markings

The backs of the legs are blue with black spots, a marking that sets this species apart from the closely similar stony creek frog.

Iris Appearance

The iris has a pale upper half and a dark lower half.

Toe and Belly Features

This species has small toe discs, and its belly is white.

Habitat

Lesueur's frog is linked to rocky streams and creeks, found in coastal heath forests, montane areas, and rainforests.

Male Breeding Call

During spring, summer, and autumn, males produce a soft, purring call from positions beside creeks or from pools along stream edges.

Breeding Timing

Most breeding takes place after rain events.

Egg Clutch Characteristics

On average, around 1630 eggs are laid in a single clump, which is loosely attached to stream bedrock.

Egg Deposition Location

Eggs are typically deposited in still sections of stream pools.

Egg Hatching Period

Hatching takes place within one week after laying.

Tadpole Size and Color

Fully grown tadpoles of this species reach approximately 4.5 cm (1.8 in) and are golden brown in color.

Metamorphosis Timeline

Metamorphosis happens during summer and autumn, around 50 to 60 days after eggs are laid.

Newly Metamorphosed Frog Features

Newly metamorphosed frogs are small, measuring around 1.4 cm (0.6 in), and resemble adult frogs, though their dark head stripe is not very prominent.

Taxonomic Split

In 2004, this original species was split into three separate species: the stony creek frog found north of Sydney, Ranoidea jungguy found in northern Queensland, and Ranoidea lesueurii.