The origins of Australian frogs

Abstract

This short chapter briefly summarizes the diversity of the extant frog fauna and then reviews the accepted models for development of the Australian herpetofauna. The discussion focuses on how the major lineages could have colonized Australia. The options for source stocks (Gondwana, intrinsic derivation, Asia) are considered and the implications of recent fossil finds discussed. Finally, the inconsistencies between existing records and accepted concepts are identified; it is suggested that the dual origin model for Australian frogs needs further verification and details of endemic radiations should be reviewed.