Critter Corner – Common Mistfrog
#CritterCorner – Despite its name, the Common Mistfrog is no longer particularly common.
Once found more widely throughout the Wet Tropics, this small rainforest frog is now classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with populations continuing to decline.
The Common Mistfrog (Litoria rheocola) is endemic to the Wet Tropics bioregion of Far North Queensland. Growing to between 27 and 41.2 millimetres in length and weighing just 1.2 to 4.55 grams, it may be small, but it is perfectly adapted to life alongside rainforest streams. The largest individuals are found in the Daintree region.
A true rainforest specialist, the Common Mistfrog is closely tied to fast-flowing rocky creeks and streams within rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest. Unlike some stream-dwelling frogs that favour waterfalls and rapids, Common Mistfrogs are often found in the slower, more open sections of waterways.
If you’re lucky enough to spot one, it may be perched on a rock, log or stream-side vegetation near the water’s edge. Males and females even use the habitat differently. Females and juveniles spend more time in vegetation alongside streams, while males show a strong preference for the rocky stream environment.
Life begins in the water. Tadpoles graze on algae growing on submerged rocks in fast-flowing streams, while adult frogs feed on a variety of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates.
When breeding season arrives, male Common Mistfrogs call from rocks, boulders and vegetation overhanging streams in the hope of attracting a mate. Their call is distinctive and surprisingly nasal, often described as a repeated “wreek, wreek, wreek” echoing through the rainforest.
The Common Mistfrog faces several threats. Chytridiomycosis, a disease caused by chytrid fungus, has had devastating impacts on rainforest frog populations throughout the Wet Tropics. Habitat loss and degradation also place pressure on the species, while feral pigs can damage sensitive streamside habitat and directly impact adult frogs. Snakes are among their natural predators.
Although the Common Mistfrog is classified as Endangered and its population is decreasing, protecting rainforest habitat remains one of the most important ways we can support its future. Healthy rainforest streams provide breeding sites, shelter and food, while intact riparian vegetation helps maintain the cool, moist conditions these frogs depend upon.
Like many amphibians, Common Mistfrogs are highly sensitive to environmental change. Their presence is often an indicator of a healthy ecosystem, making them an important part of the rainforest’s story.
Fun Facts About the Common Mistfrog
- Not So Common: Despite its name, the Common Mistfrog is classified as Endangered.
- Rainforest Specialist: It is found only in the Wet Tropics of Far North Queensland.
- A Distinctive Call: Their nasal call sounds like “wreek, wreek, wreek”.
- Built for Streams: They have fully webbed feet, partly webbed hands and large toe pads that help them navigate wet environments.
- Boys on the Rocks: Male Common Mistfrogs often call from rocks and boulders beside streams to attract a mate.
References
- Queensland Government – Department of Environment, Science and Innovation
- IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
- Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
- Image courtesy of H.B. Hines DES Qld
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