The Goliath frog (Conraua goliath) is the largest frog species in the world. This amphibian stands out for its impressive size.
The Goliath Frog: The Champion
The Goliath frog holds the record as the largest living frog species. These amphibians can reach a snout-vent length of up to 35 centimeters (14 inches) and weigh as much as 3.3 kilograms (7.3 pounds). Its eyes can be nearly 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) in diameter, with a noticeable tympanum (eardrum) about 0.5 centimeters (0.20 inches) across, set approximately 5 centimeters (2 inches) from the eye.
Goliath frog tadpoles are similar in size to those of average frog species, growing significantly throughout their development. Adults have a flattened body, a triangular head, muscular limbs, and fully webbed toes with small discs at the tips. Their skin is granular, typically green sienna on the back and limbs, and yellow or orange underneath. Male Goliath frogs can sometimes be larger than females, possibly linked to their unique nest-building behavior.
Life and Habitat of the Goliath Frog
The Goliath frog inhabits a specific and relatively small geographical range in West-Central Africa, primarily in Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. They prefer dense lowland rainforests near fast-flowing rivers and waterfalls. Their ideal habitat consists of clear, warm, highly oxygenated rivers with sandy or rocky bottoms, often in areas not completely enclosed by the forest canopy.
Adult Goliath frogs are carnivorous, preying on insects, worms, spiders, scorpions, fish, other frogs, and small mammals, with some reports indicating they consume bats. Tadpoles are herbivorous, feeding exclusively on Dicraeia warmingii, an aquatic plant growing on rocks near rapids and waterfalls. This plant dependence during their larval stage contributes to the species’ restricted distribution. Goliath frogs are primarily nocturnal hunters, though they may bask on rocks in the rivers during the day. Despite their size, they lack a vocal sac and do not produce loud croaking sounds.
Conservation Status and Efforts
The Goliath frog is classified as an endangered species on the IUCN Red List. Its population has declined by at least 50 percent over the last 15 years. A primary threat is hunting for food, as its large size makes it a protein source for local communities. They are also targeted for the pet trade and frog-jumping contests.
Habitat loss and degradation threaten the Goliath frog’s survival. Deforestation from logging and agricultural expansion, water pollution, and breeding stream sedimentation directly impact their specialized riverine habitats. The species also faces threats from pathogenic chytrid fungus.
Conservation efforts include legal protections, such as protected status in Cameroon, and export regulations by the Equatorial Guinean government. Community-based programs educate local populations and develop alternative livelihoods to reduce hunting pressure. Habitat restoration and captive breeding programs are also strategies for the long-term survival of this amphibian.