Scientists have released 25 green and golden bell frogs into wetlands in the Australian Capital Territory, marking the first time the species has been seen in the region since it became locally extinct around 1981 due to chytrid fungal disease.
The frogs, aged about 14 months, were immunised against chytridiomycosis before release. The project aims to establish self-sustaining populations at 15 sites across Canberra, with a total of approximately 375 frogs to be released in 15 batches.
Each frog is microchipped and named, with creative monikers including James Pond and Dua Leaper. To improve survival, researchers have installed 60 'frog spas' with slightly saltier water that inhibits the fungus, and 180 'frog saunas' — perspex pyramids that heat up to temperatures lethal to the pathogen.
Associate Professor Simon Clulow of the University of Canberra described the reintroduction as 'quite incredible and really significant'. The team hopes that the interventions will allow the frogs to breed, with females capable of producing up to 8,000 eggs each.
