The study, published in Scientific Reports, forecasts that, without intervention, cane toads could colonize up to 75 percent of the Pilbara within thirty years. As many as twenty-five native species, including northern quolls, ghost bats, kaluta, various frog-eating snakes, blue-tongue skinks, and goannas, are projected to suffer significant population declines. Nine of these mammals and reptiles may become newly designated as threatened species, with the ghost bat advancing to a higher threat level unless containment measures are adopted.
Dr Judy Dunlop, lead author from Curtin's School of Molecular and Life Sciences, recommends simple infrastructure changes to curb the species' spread. Permanent water sources in the Pilbara, especially cattle watering points, act as stepping stones for cane toads. Modifying dams to concrete tanks and troughs could prevent their access and limit their ability to travel through dry regions.
Professor Ben Phillips, co-author and also at Curtin, emphasizes the urgency of creating a 150-kilometre containment zone along artificial waterpoints. Restricting toad access within this area could halt their advance, similarly to how firebreaks contain bushfires. Species such as goannas and blue-tongue skinks, which hold deep cultural importance for Traditional Custodians, face severe declines, affecting food sources and storytelling traditions.
Phillips adds that the mining industry may need to meet new conservation obligations if local species' statuses change due to the cane toad invasion. The researchers conclude that well-planned control interventions could provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits for the Pilbara region.
Research Report:Quantifying the potential impact of the cane toad (Rhinella marina) on biodiversity in Australia's Pilbara region
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