Blue Poison Dart Frog

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Taxonomy

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Amphibia
Order: Anura
Family: Dendrobatidae
Genus: Dendrobates
Species: Dendrobates tinctorius (Cuvier, 1797)
Morph / Locality Form: “azureus” (commonly treated as a color morph or locality variant of D. tinctorius)

Common Names by Region

General / English: Blue Poison Dart Frog, Azureus Dart Frog, Blue Dyeing Poison Frog
Scientific / Hobby Use: Dendrobates tinctorius “azureus”, D. tinctorius (azureus morph)
Locality Reference: Often associated with southern Suriname (hobby locality labeling; exact provenance varies)

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Description

Overview

The Blue Poison Dart Frog is one of the most visually striking amphibians in the world, marked by intense cobalt-blue skin patterned with dark spots. Its coloration serves as a warning signal to predators, advertising chemical defenses in wild populations.

Size

Adult length typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 inches (4–5 cm). Females are generally larger and broader than males.

Coloration and Pattern

Base coloration ranges from bright sky blue to deep cobalt. Black spots vary in size, shape, and density. Legs are often darker and more heavily marked than the torso.

Skin and Form

Skin is smooth and slightly glossy. The body is compact and muscular, with strong limbs adapted for hopping and climbing among roots and low vegetation.

Behavior

This species is diurnal and active during daylight hours. Once established, individuals are often bold and visible. Males may defend small territories and vocalize during breeding periods.

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Known Range

The Blue Poison Dart Frog is part of the Dendrobates tinctorius species complex of the Guiana Shield region in northern South America. The “azureus” form is considered a localized color variant rather than a separate species. Public references should treat it as a morph within D. tinctorius.

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Care / Habitat

Wild Habitat (Ecology)

• Humid tropical rainforest environments
• Often near creeks, seeps, and dense ground cover
• Occupies leaf litter, fallen logs, and root systems
• Relies on small water reservoirs for reproduction

Captive Habitat (Best Practices)

• Enclosure: Planted vivarium with floor space and low climbing structures
• Humidity: High and stable, supported by misting or automation
• Ventilation: Adequate airflow to prevent stagnant conditions
• Temperature: Generally mid-70s °F; avoid overheating
• Substrate: Bioactive systems recommended
• Water: Shallow, safe water sources only

Diet

In the wild, toxicity is linked to diet. Captive frogs are usually non-toxic.

Typical Captive Foods:

• Fruit flies (Drosophila)
• Springtails
• Small isopods
• Appropriately sized micro-crickets

Supplementation:
Calcium and vitamin supplements are standard in captive care.

Handling and Ethics

These frogs should not be handled routinely. Amphibian skin is highly permeable and sensitive to contaminants. Handling should be avoided whenever possible.

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Propagation / Reproduction

Courtship and Egg Laying

• Eggs are deposited on smooth, sheltered surfaces
• Common sites include leaves, film canisters, and petri dishes
• Males often guard egg sites

Tadpole Transport and Rearing

• Parents transport tadpoles on their backs to water sources
• In managed systems, individual rearing containers reduce cannibalism

Development

Metamorphosis timing varies with temperature, water quality, and nutrition. Juveniles emerge fully terrestrial and begin feeding immediately.

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Pests / Diseases / Threats

Wild Threats

• Habitat destruction and fragmentation
• Historical overcollection

Captive Health Risks

• Dehydration from low humidity
• Bacterial and fungal infections
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Stress from poor enclosure design

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Additional Notes

• Toxicity in wild frogs is diet-dependent; captive individuals are typically non-poisonous
• The name tinctorius relates to historical dye associations
• These frogs do not “shoot” poison; toxicity is contact-based

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Maintenance / Management

• Maintain stable temperatures
• Keep humidity high with good airflow
• Provide dense vegetation and cover
• Feed small live prey regularly
• Supplement appropriately
• Provide breeding sites if propagation is desired
• Minimize handling

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Educational Use

This site is open for educational use. Teachers and students are welcome to adapt, translate, and reuse with attribution.