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Phyllobates vittatus Care and Breeding
Our detailed guide on Phyllobates vittatus, the striking Gulf Coast Poison Dart Frog. Learn about their natural habitat, care needs, breeding behaviors, and what makes them unique in the world of dart frogs.

Phyllobates vittatus, commonly known as the Golfodulcean poison frog, is a striking species of dart frog found along the Pacific lowlands of Costa Rica. Recognized by its glossy black body with vibrant orange or yellow stripes running down its sides, this frog is as fascinating as it is beautiful. Though its toxin production is negligible in captivity, Phyllobates vittatus is still an exciting species for intermediate and advanced hobbyists due to its active nature and fascinating behaviors. Unlike most other dart frogs, this species is not divided into different morphs, although there are differences in different blood lines.
Care
Terrarium Size
A group of 2–4 adult Phyllobates vittatus thrives in a 60 x 45 x 45 cm (24 x 18 x 18 inches) terrarium, though larger enclosures are always appreciated. This frog is quite active and benefits from ample floor space and vertical elements for exploration. This species can be housed in groups!
Temperature
Maintain a daytime temperature range of 22–28°C (72–78°F) with a slight nighttime drop to 20–22°C (68–72°F). Avoid excessive heat, as temperatures above 28°C (82°F) can stress or harm these frogs.
Humidity
Aim for a stable humidity level of 80–100%. This can be achieved through frequent misting and ensuring the enclosure has a drainage layer to prevent standing water. High humidity is critical for the frogs' health and skin hydration.
Lighting
While Phyllobates vittatus does not require UVB for survival, providing low-intensity UVB for a few hours weekly is highly beneficial for their overall well-being. A bright daylight bulb replicating natural daylight is essential to promote plant growth and create a vibrant display.
Substrate and Decor
Use a substrate mix that retains moisture, such as ABG mix or a blend of coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, and orchid bark. Add a thick layer of leaf litter for natural foraging behavior. Include cork bark, driftwood, and live plants like ferns, bromeliads, and pothos to create hiding spots and climbing opportunities. It also possible (and recommended) that you replace the substrate with filter foam, as this won't decompose and allows for water to drain through.
Diet
Feed them small prey items like fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila hydei), pinhead crickets, and springtails. Supplement their diet with calcium and multivitamins at each feeding to ensure proper nutrition.
Breeding
Setup
Provide petri dishes inside coconut huts and film cannisters for egg deposition. Males typically call from sheltered areas to attract females.
Sexing
While sexing Phyllobates vittatus based on their appearance is not easy, it can be done. Females tend to be slightly larger and rounder (especially when carrying eggs), and we have noticed that males tend to have eyeballs that stick out slightly more than on females (see Gallery section for images).
Egg Laying and Care
During the rain season, the female will lay clutches of 5–15 eggs every 7-14 days on moist surfaces like broad leaves or inside film canisters. The male fertilizes the eggs and guards them. Eggs hatch in 10–14 days if kept at high humidity.
Tadpole Rearing
Tadpoles can be raised communally in a large container with clean, dechlorinated water, though individual containers reduce the risk of cannibalism (especially if there are tadpoles with big differences in size). Feed them a diet of algae, fish flakes, and specially formulated tadpole food. Water changes are essential to maintain hygiene.
Froglet Care
Once the tadpoles metamorphose into froglets, they can be moved to a grow-out enclosure with a moist substrate and plenty of hiding spots, we recommend Tupperwear with holes for ventilation with a few centimeters of sphagnum moss. Ensure they are fed appropriately sized prey, such as springtails and Drosophila melanogaster. As froglets grow, gradually transition them to the adult diet.
Seasonal Cycles
Introducing a dry season can stimulate breeding activity. Reduce misting frequency slightly for 6–8 weeks to mimic natural seasonal changes, then resume heavy misting to signal the onset of the rainy season. This environmental cue often encourages breeding pairs to lay eggs.
Gallery
References:
AmphibiaWeb - Phyllobates vittatus. Available at: https://amphibiaweb.org/species/1708 (Accessed: 07.01.2025).
Dendrobase - Phyllobates vittatus. Available at: https://www.dendrobase.de/html/D_phyllobates_vittatus.html (Accessed: 07.01.2025).