The Dendrobates auratus "Colombian Green and Blue" is a specific, popular color morph of the green and black poison dart frog, originating from Colombia. This morph is valued in the pet trade for its striking and variable coloration.
Characteristics
Coloration: This morph displays a range of colors, from a metallic turquoise/green to deep blue, overlaid with black reticulation (net-like patterns). The ratio and intensity of the colors can vary between individuals, though green and blue are the dominant hues.
Size: Adults are typically medium-sized for the species, usually reaching about 1 to 1.5 inches (25-38 mm) in length. Females are often slightly larger than males.
Behavior: They are diurnal (active during the day) and semi-arboreal, meaning they forage both on the forest floor and climb well in vegetation using their toe pads. In captivity, they are generally considered moderately shy, but can become bolder over time. They can be kept in groups, provided the enclosure is spacious and offers plenty of hiding places to mitigate potential female-to-female aggression.
Toxicity: Like other Dendrobates auratus morphs, they are highly toxic in their native wild habitat, a defense mechanism derived from the specific diet of ants and other small insects they consume. Captive-bred specimens are not poisonous because their diet (typically fruit flies) does not contain the necessary toxins.
Habitat and Care (in Captivity) Origin: Native to the rainforest regions of northwestern Colombia.
Terrarium: A tropical vivarium with high humidity, ample leaf litter, live plants, and shallow water dishes is essential. They are poor swimmers, so water features must be very shallow to prevent drowning.
Temperature: The ideal temperature range is 70-80°F (21-27°C). Temperatures consistently above 85°F (29°C) are dangerous.
Humidity: High humidity levels, ideally 70-100%, need to be maintained through daily misting or an automated system.
Diet: They are insectivores and require a diet of small, live, vitamin-dusted insects such as flightless fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster and D. hydei), springtails, and isopods.
Breeding: They breed well in captivity. Females lay small clutches of eggs (typically 4-10) in a secluded, dark, and humid spot, and the male cares for them, eventually transporting the tadpoles to a small water source.
