A groundbreaking study of hundreds of Australian islands has exposed the threats posed to K'gari (Fraser Island) and prompted a grim warning from experts.

They say that without improved management, ever-increasing tourist numbers – including the crowds expected during the Brisbane Olympics in 2032 – are putting the island's World Heritage status at risk.

The University of Queensland Biodiversity Research Group study found that of 567 islands with freshwater habitats, 197 contained 102 frog species, amounting to almost half of all known Australian frog species.

Ninety-five freshwater fish species were found, 11 of which were vulnerable or endangered.

Researcher Sam Ho said he was shocked by the number of frog species and hoped the information would be used to conserve those at risk of e

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