Wondering what animals make the best companions? You might be thinking… Cats, Dogs, or maybe even Birds. But how about Frogs?
Some of you may not consider them especially companionable, given how slimy they are. But let’s get to know one particular type: the Dart Frog. Keep reading and get ready to change your mind.
Dart Frogs constantly evolve as scientists study them. In 2006, their family Dendrobatidae was reclassified, now consisting of 13 genera and around 170 species as mentioned on the website of Animal Database.
VIBRANT PERSONALITIES IN A TINY PACKAGE
The Dart Frog is a fascinating creature as they are one of the most colorful Amphibians in the world. Who wouldn’t like some colorful company in our homes, right?
While they are famous for their beautiful vivid colors, a Dart Frog enthusiast shared with Animal Scene that their personalities are just as striking. “Every (Dart) Frog is different,” they explained.
Shy type? Well, Dart Frogs are one to note! They often prefer to hide among their bromeliads and leaf litter.
Then again, some eagerly interact with their human caretakers — looks like Dart Frogs are boopers, too, huh? This variety in behavior makes them cuter and endlessly fascinating to observe.
Their level of care is so much more than I expected from such small creatures.
PARENTAL INSTINCTS UNLIKE ANY OTHER
What sets Dart Frogs apart from other animal companions? According to our source, it’s their remarkable parenting instincts. In a captivating display of care, they move their Tadpoles to safer pools of water when conditions begin to dry out.
Even more astonishing, they lay unfertilized eggs for the Tadpoles to feed on. “I was amazed the first time I saw it,” shared the human guardian we spoke with.
“Their level of care is so much more than I expected from such small creatures.”
THE START OF A LIFELONG PASSION
This enthusiast’s journey began in a small, local shop specializing in Amphibians. Drawn to the challenge of caring for such unique creatures, they were caught by Dart Frogs’ blinding beauty.
“It was a steep learning curve,” they admitted, “but I quickly fell in love with the process of understanding their needs and creating the perfect environment for them.”
From maintaining humidity levels to curating the right plants, caring for Dart Frogs requires dedication and a big dose of passion.
COMMUNICATION CUES
Some Dart Frogs are known to be incredibly territorial, using their calls to communicate with rivals and potential mates. These calls are often species-specific and help them maintain their space.
THE CHALLENGES OF CARING FOR DART FROGS
Not every moment in this enthusiast’s journey has been smooth. One memorable incident occurred when a Frog dared to escape from the vivarium during a routine cleaning. This brought them to a frantic four-hour search around the house.
But the most shocking discovery was finding a large Philippine Centipede in the enclosure, which had preyed on a few Dart Frogs. “It was heartbreaking,” they recalled, “but it’s a reminder that even in carefully controlled environments, nature can still surprise us.”
TADPOLES ON THEIR BACK
In the wild, a Dart Frog would carry their Tadpoles on their back to water sources, often traveling long distances to ensure that their young would survive.
THE ART OF THE HABITAT
Caring for Dart Frogs isn’t just about feeding them — it’s about creating a thriving habitat. Taking care of them entails deep research to know them.
The enthusiast described how they became an “accidental botanist” while building the Frogs’ vivarium. From carefully maintaining the right humidity levels to planting a variety of flora, setting up a vivarium truly is an art in itself.
“You’re recreating a slice of the jungle in your home,” they said. “It’s all about balance — humidity, plants, ventilation. It becomes a whole new passion.”
AQUARIUM VERSUS VIVARIUM
Vivariums are similar to aquariums; however, the former are designed for specific species, usually land animals.
Just like aquariums, vivariums require the proper control of temperature, humidity, and other factors to help mimic the original ecosystem of the Dart Frog.
According to the website of The Bio Dude, the following important features of a Dart Frog vivarium should be present.
SIZE
An ideal tank size would be 18 x18 x 18 inches. However, the bigger, the better!
LIGHTING
Low level of UVB lighting is needed — best with an Arcadia 6% UVB bulb. Remember, some are more nocturnal. Others thrive in their vivarium’s artificial sunlight.
TEMPERATURE
Keep it around 60 to 70 degrees Celsius.
HUMIDITY
This should be at most 80% and should not drop to 50%.
SUBSTRATE
Bone dry substrates can be used, such as cypress bark, coconut fiber, and sphagnum moss. Applying black silicone can better secure these substrates.
DESIGN
Make sure to include shelter spots, breeding areas, and egg deposition or rearing sites for the Frogs.
A good design should also help to maintain humidity, promote the nitrogen cycle, and boost overall soil health. Do not forget to include live plants and Isopods!
DIET
They should be Fed tiny live Insects, such as flightless Fruit Flies and Springtails, as dietary staples.
PRO TIP!
Make sure your vivarium has a false bottom with hydro balls for proper drainage. This ensures THAT your Dart Frogs’ environment stays healthy and well-maintained.
CAUTION WITH REPRODUCTION
Find out what Dart Frog you are caring for to avoid unethical cross-breeding that can compromise genetic integrity!
Remember that they have different genera and species to begin with.
TOXIC OR NOT?
One of the most common misconceptions about Dart Frogs is that they’re dangerous due to their toxins.
In reality, captive Dart Frogs are totally harmless. Their toxins are derived from the Ants they eat in the wild, but indoors, they’re fed flightless Fruit Flies, making them completely safe.
“I always tell visitors not to worry,” the keeper explained. “They are as safe as any other animal once they are in a controlled environment.”
ANT TOXINS
Dart Frogs in the wild derive their toxins from specific Ants they consume.
In captivity, without access to these Ants, they lose their toxicity and are completely safe to handle, according to\ the website Josh’s Frogs.
A COMMUNITY OF DART FROG FANS
While the Dart Frog community remains small, it is passionate and supportive. The keeper emphasized how valuable it’s been to connect with others who share their love for these Amphibians. “It’s rewarding to be a part of a group where people are just as dedicated as you are,” they noted.
Whether it’s exchanging tips on vivarium setups or troubleshooting problems with Frog care, the sense of camaraderie in the community has been a highlight of their experience.
“For anyone thinking about [caring for] these Amphibians, I’d say go for it. It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding.”
