The Dendrobates auratus "El Oro" is a specific color morph of the green and black poison dart frog, noted for its beautiful golden-bronze coloring. The name "El Oro" means "the gold" in Spanish, referring to its distinct coloration. This morph has a somewhat questionable origin history within the hobby but is a prized form among enthusiasts.
Characteristics
Coloration: This morph displays a beautiful golden or bronze sheen over a dark, sometimes black, base color. Some individuals may also exhibit white spots. The vibrant, metallic coloring distinguishes it from other Dendrobates auratus morphs.
Size: Adults are typically medium-sized for the species, usually reaching up to 1.5 inches (38 mm) or larger in length. Females are often slightly larger than males.
Behavior: The "El Oro" morph is considered moderately shy, but individuals tend to become bolder with age and exposure in a captive setting. They are diurnal and primarily terrestrial, foraging on the forest floor, and do well in groups if given ample space and hiding places. Females may exhibit some wrestling or aggression towards each other, while males are less likely to fight.
Toxicity: Like other Dendrobates auratus morphs, they are highly toxic in their native wild habitat, a defense mechanism derived from their diet of specific ants and insects. Captive-bred specimens are not poisonous because their diet (typically fruit flies and other small, non-toxic feeder insects) does not contain the necessary toxins.
Habitat and Care (in Captivity) Origin: The exact origin in the wild is somewhat uncertain, but it is a Panamanian morph. Terrarium: They require a tropical vivarium setup with high humidity, plenty of leaf litter, live plants, and shallow water dishes. A general guideline is 1 square foot of space per frog.
Temperature: The ideal temperature range is 70-80°F (21-27°C).
Humidity: High humidity levels, typically between 70-100%, are necessary and can be maintained with misting systems or daily manual misting.
Diet: They are insectivores and thrive on small, live, vitamin-dusted insects in captivity, such as flightless fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster and D. hydei), along with springtails and isopods.
Breeding: They are relatively easy to breed in captivity. Females lay small clutches of 3-10 eggs under leaf litter or in coco huts, which the male then guards and transports the resulting tadpoles to a small body of water.
