RANGE: Central and South America
HABITAT: Rainforests near water sources
SIZE: 1/2 inch to 2 inches
The Dendrobatidae family of frogs makes up a group of about 75 different species of poison dart frogs; each characterized by by particular coloring and a pattern of behavior.
Though they are tiny, you'll know one when you see it. See these photos of Poison Dart Frogs. Based on the food they eat, particularly ants that have already eaten toxic plants, the frogs take on vibrant coloring.
Though tiny, these frogs are nothing to laugh at. The Chocó Indians of Colombia use the skin secretions of Phyllobates terribilis, or Golden Poison Dart frog to make a curare-like poison that can stun or kill a small animal and even human beings if the poison is absorbed by mouth or through a cut in the skin. That bright yellow frog is reputed to have enough poison in it to kill ten human beings, making it the deadliest animal in the world. The poison affects the nervous system and muscles, causing paralysis and eventual respiratory failure.
These frogs normally live on the forest floor but when breeding venture into the canopy of rainforest. They live from 10 to 15 years, longer in captivity or in a zoo. They are active by day, and their bright coloration is a warning to predators. Male frogs attract females by chirping or making buzzing noises, often up from the ground to let the sound carry farther.
Poison dart frogs prefer a solitary existence when not mating. They will do battle over their territory. However, some species, both male and female, care for their young. After the eggs are hatched, they carry the young tadpoles high in branches and deposit them far enough apart so that if one is devoured by a predator, the others mighr survive.
Some species are not toxic and lack the bright coloring. Others, if their diet changes, or in captivity, the frogs lose their toxicity. This makes them a colorful addition to a home collection.
Although they are bright and colorful, and so tiny they appear toy-like, poisin dart frogs are best observed and not handled in the wild.
