The Turtle frog, scientifically known as Myobatrachus gouldii, is a unique Australian frog species characterized by its round, almost turtle-like body and short, stocky limbs. It is adapted to burrowing head-first into sand, a rare behavior among Australian burrowing frogs. The frog's head is small and narrow, and its skin is described as a dull grey-brown, yellow-brown, or pinkish.
Key characteristics of the Turtle frog:
Distinctive Appearance: Its round, flattened body resembles a miniature turtle without a shell.
Head-First Burrowing: It digs head-first into the sand, a unique adaptation for this species.
Short Limbs: Its limbs are short and powerful, enabling it to burrow effectively.
Small Head: The head is small in proportion to the body, and the eyes are very small.
Direct Development: It has a direct development cycle, meaning it skips the tadpole stage and emerges as a fully formed frog from the egg.
Diet: Turtle frogs primarily feed on termites, which they hunt in their sandy burrows.