Identification
Bibron’s Toadlet, Pseudophryne bibronii, is a small, short limbed species, brown to black above with prominent black and white marbling on the belly. It grows to a length of about 35 mm.
Bibron’s Toadlet
Photographer: Peter Robertson / Source: Wildlife Profiles Pty. Ltd.
Distribution and habitat
The Bibron’s Toadlet occurs mainly to the west, north and north east of Melbourne. It is found in forested areas, where it hides under fallen timber, rocks etc.
Biology
Its diet consists of small invertebrates. Females lay their gelatinous eggs in damp locations such as under bark or leaves, usually in shallow burrows guarded by the male. Tadpoles grow to a maximum length of 31 mm and take 3-7 months to develop.
Further Reading
Barker, J., Grigg, G. and Tyler, M. J. 1995. A Field Guide to Australian Frogs. Surrey Beatty & Sons, Sydney.
Cogger, H. 2000. Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed Books, Sydney.
Hero, J. M., Littlejohn, M. & Marantelli, G. 1991. Frogwatch Field Guide to Victorian Frogs. Department of Conservation and Environment, East Melbourne.
Tyler, M. J. 1992. Encyclopaedia of Australian Animals: Frogs. Angus & Robertson, Sydney.