description Gastric-brooding Frog Overview
Queensland's extinct gastric-brooding frogs belonged to the genus Rheobatrachus, which contained two known species. These stream-associated Australian amphibians had an unusual reproductive method: the female swallowed fertilized eggs and sheltered the developing young in her stomach. Gastric acid production was suppressed during brooding, allowing the stomach to function as a nursery rather than a digestive organ. Fully developed froglets eventually emerged through the mother's mouth.
The southern species, Rheobatrachus silus, was described in 1973. Both species subsequently disappeared and are now considered extinct, but disappearance dates and formal extinction declarations are different events. Their reproductive biology makes them important subjects in discussions of amphibian evolution and loss. They suit natural-history study rather than observation of a living species in its former habitat.
help Gastric-brooding Frog FAQ
What unique reproductive trait made the gastric-brooding frog famous?
The gastric-brooding frog (genus Rheobatrachus) was entirely unique because the female would swallow her fertilized eggs and brood them in her stomach. She suppressed her digestive acids until she eventually gave "birth" to fully formed froglets through her mouth.
Are there any gastric-brooding frogs still alive today?
No, both species of the gastric-brooding frog are entirely extinct, having vanished in the 1980s. Their sudden disappearance is largely attributed to the chytrid fungus, which has devastated amphibian populations globally.
Where was the native habitat of the gastric-brooding frog?
Before their extinction, these unique aquatic frogs were native to the rainforests and creeks of Queensland, Australia. They were specifically found in isolated populations within the eastern Australian mountain ranges.
Have scientists ever tried to clone the extinct gastric-brooding frog?
Yes, in 2013, scientists in Australia famously announced the "Lazarus Project," an attempt to clone the extinct frog using somatic cell nuclear transfer. While they successfully produced an embryo, it did not survive to adulthood.
explore Explore More
Similar to Gastric-brooding Frog
compare_arrows Compare: Southern Gastric Brooding Fr... See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
