Dart Frog Care Sheet

Overview

Dart frogs are vibrant, visually striking amphibians commonly available in the exotic pet trade, especially among specialty breeders and reptile expos. While often admired for their bright colors and small size, it’s important to remember that no exotic animal is truly a beginner pet—dart frogs have very specific environmental and dietary needs that must be consistently met. Native to Central and South America, these frogs thrive in bioactive, tropical setups with high humidity, live plants, and stable temperatures. They are diurnal and quite active, often seen hopping about and exploring during the day, making them fascinating to observe. However, dart frogs are not handleable pets—their delicate skin can be harmed by oils and residues from human hands, and handling causes unnecessary stress. Though small and quiet, dart frogs require a thoughtfully maintained enclosure and are best suited for keepers who enjoy watching rather than interacting physically with their pets.

Species averages:

Habitat Parameters

Housing recommendations

Dart frogs require a bioactive, tropical rainforest-style vivarium with high humidity and dense plant cover. A glass terrarium with a front-opening door and ventilation is ideal. Live plants such as bromeliads, pothos, and ferns help retain humidity and provide hiding spots.

Maintain 80–100% humidity with daily misting (manual or automatic). Ensure good ventilation to prevent stagnant air. Substrates such as ABG mix with a drainage layer and leaf litter are best. Avoid standing water unless shallow and clean.

Ambient temperatures should remain between 72–80°F during the day, dropping slightly at night. Avoid temperatures over 82°F. Supplemental heating is rarely needed in warm homes. UVB is not required but low-level UVB can be beneficial in planted vivariums.

Dart frogs are best housed in groups of the same species. Avoid mixing species to prevent stress and interspecific aggression.

Feeding

Dart frogs are insectivores that require small, live prey items. Feedings should occur daily or every other day, depending on age and species.

Supplementation

Because captive diets lack natural nutritional variation, proper supplementation is critical to avoid deficiencies.

Rotate supplements to avoid over-supplementation and always dust prey just before feeding.

Special considerations

Handling

Dart frogs should not be handled unless absolutely necessary. Their delicate skin is highly absorbent and susceptible to injury and contamination from oils or soaps. Use clean, gloved, or wet hands if handling is unavoidable (e.g., moving enclosures). Focus on providing a beautiful environment to observe rather than interact directly.

Bioactive setup benefits

Dart frogs thrive in naturalistic setups. Beneficial microfauna (springtails, isopods) help break down waste, maintaining a clean and balanced ecosystem. Bioactive setups also support humidity levels and reduce stress.

Breeding behavior

Dart frogs often breed in captivity if conditions are right. Many species lay eggs in leaf litter or bromeliad axils. Males may vocalize to attract females. If breeding is not desired, consider housing only same-sex groups or removing egg-laying sites.

Common Health Concerns in Dart Frogs

Below are some of the most common health issues seen in dart frogs. Subtle signs of illness should be addressed promptly.

Nutritional Deficiency (MBD)

Signs: Lethargy, curved limbs, poor coordination

Causes: Inadequate calcium or vitamin A/D3

Chytrid Fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis)

Signs: Lethargy, loss of skin, abnormal posture

Causes: Contagious fungal infection—fatal if untreated

Skin Desiccation/Dehydration

Signs: Wrinkled or dry skin, abnormal hiding behavior

Causes: Inadequate humidity, improper misting

Obesity or Malnutrition

Signs: Bloating, visible hip bones, lethargy

Causes: Unbalanced feeding, wrong prey size or frequency

Parasites (internal or external)

Signs: Diarrhea, weight loss, decreased appetite

Causes: Contaminated cultures, poor enclosure hygiene

These are all concerns we can help with via telemedicine. If you suspect your dart frog may be showing any of the signs above, book an appointment at swiftailvet.com for expert exotic pet care from the comfort of your home.

Disclaimer

At Swiftail Vet, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date information based on current best practices in exotic pet care. However, husbandry standards can evolve quickly. If you notice any outdated or incorrect information on this care sheet, please let us know by emailing info@swiftailvet.com or using the contact form on our website at swiftailvet.com. Your feedback helps us ensure the highest quality resources for pet owners and their companions.

Written by: Wintergreen Vet Services

March, 18, 2025