Goliath frog

The largest frog in the world

The goliath frog (Conraua goliath) is the largest living frog on the planet: it can reach about 45 cm in snout-to-vent length and weigh up to 3–4.5 kg, as much as a medium-sized cat. Its sturdy, muscular body has granular greenish-brown skin and powerful webbed hind legs, adapted for swimming in fast water and making impressive leaps. Despite its size, it is a shy and elusive animal.

Habitat and range

It lives in a relatively small area of west-central Africa, between southern Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. It is closely tied to the fast rivers and streams of the rainforest, with clear, oxygen-rich water and abundant waterfalls, where it spends much of its time.

Behaviour and breeding

It is mainly nocturnal and feeds on invertebrates, crustaceans, fish and small amphibians. Curiously, the adults lack vocal sacs and do not croak like many other frogs. It has been observed building and clearing small nests for its eggs along the banks, even moving heavy stones — a rare case of parental care in a frog.

Did you know?

Despite its size, the tadpoles feed on a single species of aquatic plant that grows on rocks in the streams, a link that makes it even more dependent on intact habitats.

Conservation

The IUCN lists it as Endangered. Forest destruction, river pollution and above all collection for food and the exotic pet trade have reduced its populations across its small range.