Animal Profiles
Amphibians

Poison Dart Frog

Dendrobatidae

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Poison dart frogs are colourful tropical amphibians. This account describes the green-and-black poison frog (Dendrobates auratus), an active daytime hunter of tiny invertebrates.

Dendrobates auratus (poison dart frog)

Representative species: Dendrobates auratus.

Brian Gratwicke · CC BY

At a glance

Habitat
Rainforest
Diet
Insectivore
Food
Small insects and other invertebrates.

Classification

Common name
Poison Dart Frog
Browse group
Amphibians
Scientific name or taxon
Dendrobatidae
Taxon rank
family
Order
Anura
Family
Dendrobatidae
Source classification
Amphibia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • It is active during daylight.
  • Its colours vary among populations.
  • Diet contributes to its skin defences.

Habitat and range

The green-and-black poison frog is native from Nicaragua to Colombia, using rainforest and some plantations. It has also been introduced to Hawaii. This range follows the museum account rather than the older source’s overextended South American description.

Appearance and adaptations

Green or bluish patches contrast with dark markings, though colours vary among populations. Bright skin patterns warn potential predators of chemical defences.

Diet and behaviour

Adults capture small invertebrates with a sticky tongue. Dietary compounds contribute to skin toxicity; captive frogs fed different prey can lose those defences. Eggs develop on land before the tadpoles are carried to water.

Sources

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