Green-and-black Poison Frog

Overview

A common poison dart frog with green-and-black blotches, toxic in the wild, popular in terrariums.

History & Origin

The poison dart frog is native to Central & South America. It belongs to the family Dendrobatidae, a lineage of amphibians distributed across those regions and kept both in the wild and by specialist keepers.

Appearance & Size

Green-and-black Poison Frog is a small (2–3 cm) frog.

Temperament

Generally hardy and tolerant of gentle handling when raised in captivity, though individual temperament varies.

Care & Husbandry

Poison dart frogs are small, diurnal, brightly coloured rainforest-floor jewels. In captivity they are fed microfauna (fruit flies, springtails) and need a humid, planted terrarium with gentle misting. Wild toxicity comes from diet; captive-bred animals are harmless, but they remain delicate and best for experienced keepers.

Health & Lifespan

Sensitive to poor humidity and water quality; metabolic and skin issues arise quickly. Meticulous husbandry and a qualified exotic vet are essential. In captivity a healthy individual may live around 8–12 years.

Popularity & Recognition

Dart frogs are celebrated for dazzling colour—blue, dyed, green-and-black morphs—and their former use on hunting darts by Indigenous peoples of the Americas.