Green and golden bell frog  (Litoria aurea)

There are many factors thought to be responsible for the dramatic decline of this species. Habitat fragmentation, the introduction of predatory fish and alteration of drainage regimes are all thought to be involved. Many studies have shown that losses of this frog are closely related to the introduction of the ‘mosquito fish' (Gambusia holbrooki), native to North America and introduced as an attempt to control mosquito larvae. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that the tadpoles of the green and golden bell frog are extremely susceptible to predation by this fish (3). Other factors thought to affect this species include predation by introduced mammalian predators such as cats and foxes, changes to the quality of water, herbicide use, and loss of habitat through the destruction of wetlands (2). However, the recently identified Chytrid fungus appears likely to have led to at least some and perhaps most of the major declines observed through the 1970s and 1980s (7).

The green and golden bell frog has been the subject of much research and monitoring. This is very important, as well-informed conservation measures are likely to be more effective (1). Current work is focusing on the development of management measures to keep the introduced mosquito fish under control. Furthermore, strategies are being devised that will allow the development and improvement of suitable habitat in order to increase the reproductive success of the species. In parallel to these measures, community awareness programmes have also been proposed (2).