Powder Blue Dart Frog Care
Powder Blue Dart Frog
(Dendrobates tinctorius)
The Powder Blue Dart Frog is a striking morph of Dendrobates tinctorius, recognized for its powdery blue limbs, black body with irregular light blue or green spots, and a creamy or golden back. Native to the tropical rainforests of French Guiana and surrounding regions, these frogs are diurnal, terrestrial, and thrive in warm, humid environments. Like all dart frogs in captivity, they are completely non-toxic thanks to their captive diet..
Lifespan:
10–15 years in captivity with proper care
Sexing:
Males: Slightly smaller, leaner, and may exhibit calling behavior. Males often develop broader toe pads and may be seen calling or wrestling during breeding season
Females: Larger and more robust
Enclosure:
Minimum Size: 10-gallon vertical tank for a single frog; 18x18x18 or larger for pairs/trios
Bioactive or naturalistic setups are highly recommended
Provide multiple hiding areas and leaf litter for cover
Vertical space is useful for climbing, but floor space is more critical
Substrate:
ABG mix (or similar) layered with leaf litter and sphagnum moss
Well-draining with a false bottom to prevent standing water
Maintains high humidity without being soggy
Lighting & Temperature:
Basking Spot: 78–80°F
Ambient Temperature: 72–78°F
Cool Side: 68–72°F
Use full-spectrum LED lighting to support plant growth; optional low-level UVB (2.0–5.0)
Humidity:
80-90% humidity during the day, slightly higher at night. Mist daily; ensure good ventilation to prevent respiratory issues
Food:
Primarily feed flightless fruit flies (D. melanogaster or D. hydei), springtails, and pinhead crickets
Feed daily or every other day depending on age and group size
All food should be dusted with calcium (every other feeding) and vitamins (1–2x/week)
Water:
Provide a shallow water dish or running water feature
Must be dechlorinated and changed frequently
Avoid deep pools to prevent accidental drowning
With its gentle coloration and curious personality, the Powder Blue Dart Frog offers a calming, elegant presence in a planted terrarium. Their peaceful temperament and low maintenance needs make them an ideal species for anyone building a bioactive rainforest habitat. These frogs may be small, but their charm and character will easily make them one of your most admired pets.