The Biggest Frog in the World (Plus 11 Massive Contenders)

The Goliath frog is the world’s largest frog species. Native to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, these frogs can grow up to 12.5 inches (32 centimeters) and weigh over 7 pounds (3.2 kilograms). That’s heavier than many newborn humans!

Surprisingly, goliath frogs don’t have a vocal sac, so unlike newborn humans, they’re silent.

This endangered species lives near rivers and waterfalls, where they build nests among rocks to breed.Their habitat is under threat due to hunting, habitat loss and the pet trade.

Slightly smaller but still enormous, the helmeted water toad hails from Chile. Adult males grow to 4.7 inches (12 cm), and females can reach up to 12.6 inches (32 cm). These amphibians prefer ponds and still waters, and they feed on insects, fish and even other frogs.

This species, like many others, faces habitat degradation and is listed as threatened. Conservation efforts are needed to preserve their breeding sites.

Also known as the pixie frog, males of this bulky species can reach up to 9 inches (23 centimeters) and weigh over 2 pounds (0.9 kilograms). Native to Sub-Saharan Africa, the African bullfrog is a voracious predator, eating anything it can fit in its mouth, including rodents and other amphibians.

Its aggressive behavior and hardy nature make it a common species in the exotic pet trade.

Originally from Central and South America, cane toads have been introduced to other regions like Australia. These large toads can grow up to 9.4 inches (24 centimeters) and weigh up to 3.3 pounds (1.5 kilograms).

They are notorious for their toxic secretions, which can be lethal to predators and harmful to pets and humans.

Also called the smoky mountain frog, this species is native to Central and South America. Adult frogs can reach approximately 7 inches (18 centimeters) in length. They emit a loud scream when threatened and have powerful legs for escaping predators.

The smoky jungle frog plays a critical role in controlling insect populations in its rainforest ecosystem.

Known for its bright yellow breeding season coloration and booming croak, the Indian bullfrog is one of Asia’s largest frogs. It grows up to 6.7 inches (170 centimeters) long. During the dry season, it burrows into the soil to retain moisture.

Its large size and loud call help it stand out in the wetlands of the Indian subcontinent. Unfortunately, like other frogs, it's susceptible to habitat disruption and climate change.

A close cousin to the goliath frog, the giant slippery frog is also native to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. Though slightly smaller, it still ranks among the world frogs with the largest bodies, reaching up to 6 inches (15 centimeters).

These amphibians often share rivers and breeding sites with their goliath relatives. They’re known for their glossy skin and ability to evade predators by diving into water.

The American bullfrog can reach up to roughly 8 inches (20 centimeters) and is widespread across North America. It has a powerful build and a loud, resonant call. It’s a dominant predator in many freshwater habitats and is also raised for food in some regions.

Another name for the cane toad, this species can grow up to 9.4 inches (24 centimeters) and is known for its adaptability. It’s one of the few amphibians to thrive in both urban and wild settings.

This Southeast Asian native can grow up to 10 inches (26 centimeters) and is known for its strong legs and wide head. It prefers rocky streams and rivers in forested regions.

This aquatic species reaches lengths of about 5.5 inches (14 centimeters) and is widely used in scientific research. It’s native to Sub-Saharan Africa and is known for its clawed toes used for tearing apart food.

Native to South America, Budgett’s frog can grow up to 4.5 inches (11.5 centimeters). Its comical, flattened appearance and loud vocalizations make it a favorite among amphibian enthusiasts.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.