The failure of a refrigeration unit has caused a setback to the ACT's northern corroboree frog breeding program. Around 700 tadpoles and 300 frogs died when the refrigeration unit in a purpose built container housing the frogs at Tidbinbilla failed. The frogs had been bred in captivity over the past two years. Staff, who have invested much time and effort into the program, has seen Tidbinbilla become the only place in Australia that has successfully bred northern corroboree frogs in captivity. To see this happen is distressing. However they they still have a substantial breeding population and will be able to get back on track for a planned release next year.
They hope to have another 1,000 frogs produced next year based on current breeding success. Tidbinbilla says they already take a number of precautions to protect the captive frogs. Even though the populations were spread amongst three bio-secure containers, and the refrigeration and electrical systems were seperate from each container, clearly there is need for better backup. An external review of the facility will take place.
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