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Poison Arrow Dart Frogs

Breeding

If you are interested in breeding poison dart frogs, the species that are the easiest to breed are D. auratus, D. leucomelas, and D. tinctorius. (The latter two are more difficult to find for purchasing though, and more expensive).

For breeding purposes, a "honeymoon hut" should be included in the frog's enclosure. This can be an upside down plastic flowerpot with a door cut in it, the bottom of a liter soda bottle (colored), or any other suitable object. This will serve as the "bower" for egg laying. Inside the hut, a petri dish (or plastic lid) should be filled with distilled water. In the dish should be a leaf - attached to the side of the dish -(preferably plastic) for the eggs to be laid on (water should only be as high as the leaf's edge). Once eggs are laid, they should be left in the hut for an hour or two to ensure that they have been fertilized. Then they can be removed from the tank for additional care.

The next step is to provide a healthy environment for the eggs to develop. Specific protocols for the egg development may vary between species. A general protocol is listed below:

1. Water from the dish is replaced with fresh clean water (unchlorinated, soft, nearly mineral freewater) that just covers the edges of the clutch.

2. The dish is then covered, kept in the dark place and checked daily replaceing the water every couple of days.

3. Some hobbyist put a few drops of methylene blue in the water to help prevent fungus.

4. Most eggs (depending on the species) will hatch in 14 days. The tadpoles are then transferred to individual aquaruim, often by using a plastic spoon.

It is important to change the water inside the petri dish daily to keep it clean.