Technical data sheet: Dendrobates tinctorius Azureus
Valerio ChiaradonnaThe Dendrobates tinctorius Azureus, known as the blue poison frog or azureus, is a morphological variant of the 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 liveliness and ease of terrarium management.
Physical Characteristics
It reaches 4-5 cm in length, with females slightly more robust than males; smooth skin, muscular hind legs for jumping and toes with adhesive discs for climbing.
Dominant coloration is cobalt blue with rounded black spots on the back, head, and legs; belly is pale or bluish; juveniles display less saturated colors that intensify with maturity.
Natural Habitat and Terrarium
It 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 substrate + sphagnum moss, misting 3-4 times/day and low UVB (5.0).
Poison and Toxicity
It secretes skin alkaloids (pumiliotoxins) that are less lethal than terribilis, but irritating to predators; in captive-bred animals, they are non-toxic; the poison comes from the wild diet (ants, termites).
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Diet and Nutrition Care
Insectivorous: fruit flies, micro crickets, fruit flies, larvae; vitamin dusting (Repashy, T-Rex) 2-3 times a week, pure calcium alternating.
A varied diet is 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/sanitation to prevent mold.
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