1. The affects of temperatures of 15°C, 22°C and 28°C on the growth and development of juvenile green and golden bell frogs (Litoria aurea) were investigated over 42 days. 2. Snout-vent length increased only at 28°C. 3. Sexual maturation of males occurred only at 28°C. 4. Growth was not proportional to food intake. 5. Over the range of L. aurea ambient temperatures are seasonally lower than the optimum for growth and development. 6. Morning temperatures are 2°C colder, during the cooler months, in regions where L. aurea is extinct when compared with those still occupied. © 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.