How Big Was Beelzebufo, the Prehistoric ‘Devil Frog’?
Beelzebufo, an extinct frog species, once roamed ancient Madagascar. Its formidable size earned it the nickname “Devil Frog,” or “Frog from Hell.” This creature’s discovery on the island of Madagascar provided paleontologists with a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life.
Beelzebufo’s Staggering Dimensions
Beelzebufo was one of the largest frogs known to have ever existed. Estimates indicate its snout-to-vent length could reach up to 40 to 41 centimeters (approximately 16 inches), comparable in size to a beach ball. This prehistoric giant also possessed a substantial weight, estimated around 4.5 kilograms (about 10 pounds). This made Beelzebufo a remarkably heavy amphibian, far surpassing the size of most contemporary frogs.
Evidence from the Past
The scientific understanding of Beelzebufo’s size and characteristics stems from significant fossil discoveries in Madagascar. Paleontologist David W. Krause of Stony Brook University led the team that unearthed the first fossil bones in 1993. These initial findings laid the groundwork for further investigation into this unique amphibian.
The species, formally named Beelzebufo ampinga, was described in 2008 by a collaborative team including Susan E. Evans, Marc E. H. Jones, and David W. Krause. Over a hundred isolated partial bones, including skull fragments, vertebrae, and pelvic bones, were collected between 1993 and 2011. Scientists used comparative anatomy and detailed analysis of these remains to reconstruct the frog’s full body size. All known fossils of Beelzebufo have been found in the Maevarano Formation within the Mahajanga Basin of northwestern Madagascar.
A Giant Among Frogs
Beelzebufo’s immense size becomes even more apparent when compared to modern amphibians. The largest living frog species today is the Goliath Frog (Conraua goliath), found in West Africa. While impressive, the Goliath Frog typically reaches a snout-to-vent length of about 32 centimeters (12.6 inches) and weighs up to 3.25 kilograms (7.2 pounds).
Its powerful build and wide gape allowed Beelzebufo to consume relatively large prey. Studies on the bite force of related living species suggest Beelzebufo could have had a bite as strong as a snapping turtle, and even rivaled that of a lion or tiger pound-for-pound. This suggests Beelzebufo was capable of preying on a variety of animals, including small crocodiles and even juvenile dinosaurs.
Its Ancient World
Beelzebufo thrived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 66 to 70 million years ago, when dinosaurs were still present. Madagascar, its home, was an isolated landmass with a distinct ecosystem. The paleoenvironment featured warm, humid conditions, possibly experiencing seasonal dry spells.
This prehistoric frog was a carnivorous ambush predator, relying on its large size and powerful jaws to capture food. Its diet likely consisted of insects, small vertebrates like lizards, and other amphibians. Given its robust skull and wide mouth, Beelzebufo was also capable of preying on larger animals, potentially including hatchling or juvenile dinosaurs and baby crocodiles.