Dendrobates Leucomelas

(Bumblebee Poison Frog)

Size: 1 to 1.5 inches

Level: Mostly terrestrial
Care: Beginner
Tank: 5-10 gallons per frog
Price: Low
Breeding Difficulty: Easy
Behavior: Does well in groups.
Notes: Commonly known in the hobby as "Leucs," these frogs are one of the boldest frogs in the vivarium, very hardy, very easy to breed, and extremely affordable. When combined with their striking coloring and loud call, these frogs are a perfect beginner frog and a staple among hobbyists.

*Several of my fellow hobbyists keep these frogs and they are one of the boldest frogs I have ever seen: not even moving when you approach the tank! Their high, trill-like call is very loud--loud enough to be heard several rooms away. Luckily, like all poison frogs, Leucs are diurnal meaning their call won't keep you up at night.

 

Dendrobates Auratus

(Green and Black Poison Frog)

Size: 1 to 1.5 inches
Level: Mostly terrestrial
Care: Beginner
Tank: 5-10 gallons per frog
Price: Low
Breeding Difficulty: Easy
Behavior: Does well in groups.
Notes: Auratus are another popular frog because of their hardiness and their affordability. However, unlike most of the larger species of dart frogs, Auratus tend to be more timid and often hide when they notice movement outside their tanks. Also, although commonly known as the "Green and Black" frog, they come in many different morphs or colors. From turquoise and bronze, to all black with blue spots, to more of a chocolate with few markings, there are as many different morphs as there are different countries they are found in. On an interesting note, Auratus are now found in the wild in Hawaii where they were transplanted to help control mosquitoes--these are now noticeably different then their Central and South American cousins.
*As the first frogs I was privileged to care for, Auratus will always have a special place in my collection. The morph that I own (Ancon Hill) tend to be a little less shy; talk to your breeder before you buy about their opinion on the shyness of these frogs.

Through the end of the year, I'm going to be showcasing some of the dart frogs that are common and not so common in the hobby. We'll start off with some of the favorites.

Dendrobates Azureus
(Blue Poison Frog)

Size: up to 2 inches
Level: Mostly terrestrial
Care: Beginner
Tank: 10 gallons per frog
Price: Low to mid range. Common, but popular.
Breeding Difficulty: Easy
Behavior: VERY territorial. Females have been known to kill other tank mates by drowning them. Best kept singly or in breeding pairs. Bold in the vivarium.
Notes: A stunningly-colored, blue frog, Azureus is a more common species because of its hardiness in the vivarium and ease of breeding. Often found in zoos and hobby rooms alike, Azureus is very bold and active frog which makes it a popular choice. These frogs, like other members of the tinctorius group, are large and sexually dimorphic in regards to size and shape of the body and size of the toe pads.
*On a personal note, a friend and I found an incredible deal on six tads which begin morphing back in July. They morphed out with good color and incredible appetites! If you are looking for a bold frog that does well in the viv, I would recommend these beautiful frogs!