The North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) Waterwatch team is on a mission to locate invading species of tree frogs, collectively known as the ‘Banana Box Frogs’ in the Avoca/Avon-Richardson catchments.  Commonly known as the Green Tree Frog, Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog and the Dainty Tree Frog, these frogs pose a threat to native species in our local waterways.   

“The North Central CMA Waterwatch Program is not just about monitoring water quality. Through this work, Waterwatch is aiming to raise public awareness of the invading frog species and to assist with reducing the threat to native species,” said Damian Wells, North Central CMA Chief Executive Officer.

“It is envisaged that this project will help protect biodiversity in North Central Victoria, by identifying and catching the invading species before they can do any harm” added Mr Wells, ”They pose a threat to our native frog species through competition and the transfer of the lethal Chytrid fungus.

According to Melanie Barrot, Waterwatch Facilitator for the Avoca-Avon Richardson catchments, these frog species are inadvertently transferred to Victoria via transport of fresh produce hence their collective name of ‘Banana Box Frogs’.

“Community involvement in this project is vital. Identification posters and fact sheets about the Banana Box Frogs have been placed in supermarkets across the Avoca and Avon-Richardson catchment to raise community awareness.

“Everyone can help by spreading the message and notifying the store manager if they see or find any of these species”, Melanie said. “When a Banana Box Frog is reported it is captured and sent off to the Amphibian Research Centre.  From here the frogs are put into quarantine. Once the frogs have been quarantined and are free of disease they can then be purchased as a pet.”

If you would like any further information on the Banana Box Frog Project or the North Central Catchment Management Authority’s Waterwatch Program please contact Melanie Barrot on 0427 887 254.

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551
t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au