Technical data sheet: Dendrobates tinctorius Azureus
Valerio ChiaradonnaDendrobates tinctorius Azureus, also known as the blue poison dart frog or azureus, is a morphological variant of tinctorius, famous for its striking deep blue pattern with black spots. Native to Suriname, French Guiana, and northern Brazil, it is popular among breeders for its vivacity and ease of care in a terrarium.
Physical Characteristics
Reaching 4-5 cm in length, with females slightly more robust than males; smooth skin, muscular hind legs for jumping, and adhesive toe pads for climbing.
Dominant cobalt blue coloration with rounded black spots on the back, head, and legs; light or bluish belly; juveniles show less saturated colors that intensify with maturity.
Natural Habitat and Terrarium
Lives in lowland rainforests between 0-400 m, with humidity 70-90%, temperatures 24-28°C day (22-25°C night) and humid microclimates near streams.
Ideal terrarium: exposed 40x40x60 cm (group 4-6), with live plants (Pothos, Bromeliads), foliage + sphagnum substrate, misting 3-4 times/day and low UVB (5.0).
Venom and Toxicity
Secretes cutaneous alkaloids (pumiliotoxins) less lethal than terribilis, but irritating to predators; captive-bred individuals are non-toxic, venom comes from wild diet (ants, termites).
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Territorial males vocalize (trilling call) to attract females; 5-15 eggs laid under leaves, parents care for embryos; males carry tadpoles on their backs to bromeliad axils.
Hatching 10-14 days, tadpole development 40-60 days with parental feeding (unfertilized eggs), metamorphosis at 1.5-2 cm.
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Diet and Nutritional Care
Insectivorous: fruit flies, micro crickets, fruit fly gnats, larvae; vitamin dusting (dendrocare, T-Rex) 2-3 times/week, alternating pure calcium.
Varied nutrition essential; evening feeding, small portions to avoid obesity; constant fresh water in shallow bowls.
This azureus is perfect for intermediate hobbyists: social in mixed groups, long-lived (10-15 years), but requires consistent humidity/hygiene to prevent mold.
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