Strawberry poison-dart frog
A species of Oophaga, Also known as Flaming poison frog, Strawberry Poison Dart Frog Scientific name : Oophaga pumilio Genus : Oophaga
Strawberry poison-dart frog, A species of Oophaga
Also known as:
Flaming poison frog, Strawberry Poison Dart Frog
Scientific name: Oophaga pumilio
Genus: Oophaga
Content
Description People often ask General Info
Description
The strawberry poison-dart frog (Oophaga pumilio) can be found in the tropical forests of Central America. It is known for the dangerous alkaloid toxin extruded by its skin. The toxic effects are largely the result of the frog's diet, as it incorporates chemicals produced by Brachymyrmex ants and Brachypylina mites. Isolated populations of strawberry poison-dart frog have evolved widely-varying skin colors, though most are still bright as a warning to predators.
People often ask
General Info
Lifespan
8-15 years
Diet
Strawberry poison-dart frog is a specialist consumer of mites and arthropods, due to its unique toxin acquisition and usage behavior. Specifically, it forages on a range of small invertebrates, including beetles, ants, centipedes, and spiders, the alkaloids of which contribute to its skin’s toxic properties.
Appearance
Strawberry poison-dart frog is a small, vibrant frog with a smooth skin. Its size ranges from 17 to 22 mm in adulthood. Notably, this frog has a wide variety of striking colors like red, blue, or yellow, often with dark spots or bands. Males and females bear similar appearances, but females tend to be larger.
Behavior
Strawberry poison-dart frog, a small, brightly colored amphibian, is known for its unique parental-care pattern. Females feed their offspring unfertilized eggs, a behavior called 'oophagy'. This is in addition to the typical amphibian egg-guarding strategies. Strawberry poison-dart frog are territorial and demonstrate aggressive behavior towards intruding conspecifics. Despite their vibrant colors, these solitary creatures expertly hide amongst leaf litter in their tropical forest habitats.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Frogs and toads Family
Poison dart frog Genus
Oophaga Species
Strawberry poison-dart frog