Dendrobates Tinctorius Cobalt Dart Frog Care Guide

Dendrobates Tinctorius ‘Cobalt’ Characteristics:

• Highly recommended for beginners
• Dazzling cobalt blue coloration
• Typically bold and active
• Breeding is relatively uncomplicated
• Quiet vocalizations
• Large in size
• Can be housed in groups under the right conditions

Vivarium Recommendations:

• For housing 1-2 adult frogs, Dart Frog HQ recommends a minimum terrarium size of 18x18x18 inches. However, a 24x18x18 inch terrarium or larger is optimal for their well-being.
• Ideal substrate options include ABG mix combined with other bioactive layers. These substrates foster microfauna, essential for decomposition.
• Live plants? Here are some recommended kits (coming soon) with safe and easy-to-maintain plants.
• For a guide on vivarium setup, watch this video (coming soon).

Optimal Conditions:

• Temperature: Best between 65-80°F, ideally low to mid-70s. Above 85°F can be harmful.
• Humidity: Preferred range is 70-100%, but short spells down to 50% are tolerable if there’s water access. Prolonged low humidity can be fatal.

Physical Attributes:

• Size: Adult females average 1.5 inches, while males are slightly smaller at around 1.25 inches.
• Age: In captivity, they can live over 20 years, though 10 years is typical. Wild lifespan is believed to be 4-6 years.

Dietary Needs:

• They have a preference for smaller prey. While juveniles are fond of Drosophila melanogaster fruit flies, adults can indulge in Drosophila hydei fruit flies and pinhead crickets. Springtails and isopods are also a hit. Ensure all meals are enriched with vital vitamins and minerals..
• Learn more on feeding in our video (coming soon).

Sex Determination:

• Typically distinguishable around 10-12 months. Males tend to be tinier and sport broader front toe pads with a subtler back arch

Appearance:

• Stunning cobalt blue hue. The shade can vary, sometimes presenting with lighter blue speckles or patches.

Social Tendencies:

• Group housing is feasible with adequate space. However, as they age, some aggression, especially among females, may arise. It’s often advised to house breeding pairs.
• Mixing various species or morphs can negatively impact their health. Best to steer clear of it.

Breeding:

• Generally straightforward. Breeding patterns might vary, with some laying eggs frequently and others pausing between batches.
• Eggs are typically deposited on broad leaves or beneath cocohuts. These then evolve into tadpoles and eventually transform into miniature adults within 60-80 days.
• Interested in breeding? Check our video (coming soon) for tips. Buying multiple frogs enhances pairing odds.

Habitat:

• These frogs hail from the lush regions of South America, predominantly found in areas with high humidity, often alongside streams and water sources.