VIVID WONDERS

Ranitomeya dart frogs are tiny, measuring just 13 to 22 mm, and are commonly known as thumbnail dart frogs.

 

These frogs are known for their vibrant, colourful patterns, and their skin is toxic.

 

These diurnal amphibians inhabit the wet, tropical rainforests of South America, as illustrated on the map, where they can be found among the leaf litter on the forest floor or high up in the trees.

 

Their breeding behaviour is particularly fascinating, as the males carry tadpoles on their backs to find a suitable spot in a water-retaining plant, such as a bromeliad or heliconia.

 

There are 18 different species, with some populations displaying unique colour patterns depending on their geographic location.

 

Some of these species are vulnerable or endangered due to habitat destruction or capture for the illegal pet trade.