strawberry poison dart frogs (oophaga pumilio)

Strawberry Poison Dart Frogs (Oophaga pumilio): Bright, Bold, and Captivating

If you’re searching for an amphibian species that’s both visually stunning and surprisingly manageable, look no further than strawberry poison dart frogs (oophaga pumilio). With their electric-red bodies and contrasting blue limbs, these little frogs are one of the most beautiful and recognizable species in the poison dart frog family. Often referred to as “Blue Jeans Dart Frogs,” they’re a dream for hobbyists interested in color, movement, and unique behavior.

Whether you’re new to amphibians or a seasoned collector, you can find healthy, captive-bred dart frogs and all the supplies you need at OneStopReptileShop.com—your trusted source for premium reptiles and amphibians.

What Makes strawberry poison dart frogs (oophaga pumilio)?

strawberry poison dart frogs (oophaga pumilio) is native to Central America, especially Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama, where it inhabits humid tropical rainforests. Despite their tiny size (averaging just 0.75–1 inch), these frogs are bold, active, and full of personality.

Their stunning coloration serves a purpose in the wild: warning predators of their toxic skin. However, in captivity, their diet is non-toxic, so they pose no harm to humans.

Quick Facts:

• Scientific Name: Oophaga pumilio

• Common Name: Strawberry poison dart frog, blue jeans frog

• Size: 0.75–1 inch (adults)

• Lifespan: 5–10 years in captivity

• Temperament: Bold, diurnal, active

Natural Habitat & Behavior

In the wild, these frogs are found in leaf litter and low vegetation of humid forests. They’re diurnal, meaning they’re active during the day—a trait that makes them ideal display frogs.

In captivity, strawberry poison dart frogs thrive in bioactive terrariums filled with live plants, moss, cork bark, and plenty of hiding spaces. They’re highly visual, constantly exploring their environment and interacting with one another.

Enclosure Setup forstrawberry poison dart frogs (oophaga pumilio)

Because of their small size and terrestrial nature, horizontal space is more important than vertical height. A pair or trio can be comfortably housed in a 10–20 gallon tank.

Enclosure Guidelines:

• Tank Size: 10 gallons for a pair, 20+ gallons for groups

• Humidity: 80–100% (misting multiple times a day or using automated misting systems)

• Temperature: 72–78°F

• Lighting: LED or low-intensity UVB to support plant growth

• Substrate: Bioactive mix or ABG soil with leaf litter

OneStopReptileShop.com has everything you need to build a lush, naturalistic dart frog habitat, including bioactive kits, live plants, and misting systems.

Diet & Nutrition

strawberry poison dart frogs (oophaga pumilio) feed on small live invertebrates. In captivity, they require a variety of micro-prey to stay healthy.

Recommended Foods:

• Flightless fruit flies (Melanogaster and Hydei)

• Springtails

• Pinhead crickets (occasionally)

• Isopods (in bioactive setups)

Dusting fruit flies with calcium and vitamin supplements ensures they receive the proper nutrition. Most of these feeder insects and supplements can be purchased directly at OneStopReptileShop.com.

Breeding Behavior

strawberry poison dart frogs (oophaga pumilio) are prolific breeders when kept in ideal conditions. Males call and court females with soft, birdlike chirps. Once eggs are laid, they’re often deposited on smooth leaves or in film canisters, and the male may guard or moisten them.

With proper care and a stable habitat, you may even observe tadpole transport behavior—where a parent carries a single tadpole on their back to a water source like a bromeliad or leaf axil.

Handling and Care Tips

These frogs are not meant for handling. Their skin is delicate, and even oils or residues from clean hands can harm them. However, their vibrant colors and active behavior make them exceptional display pets for desktop or living room vivariums.

Handling Guidelines:

• Avoid handling unless necessary

• Use gloves if you must move them

• Mist hands before contact to reduce risk of harm

Why Buy from OneStopReptileShop.com?

OneStopReptileShop.com specializes in captive-bred exotic amphibians, including dart frogs. When you shop with them, you get:

• Healthy, quarantined dart frogs

• Bioactive vivarium supplies

• Live feeders and supplement kits

• Expert customer support and fast shipping

Their wide selection and commitment to quality make them the best one-stop shop for all your exotic frog needs.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry poison dart frogs (Oophaga pumilio) are vibrant, energetic, and fascinating additions to any herpetology collection. Their dazzling colors and daytime activity provide a rewarding experience for keepers. With a proper setup, diet, and humidity control, these frogs will thrive and maybe even reproduce. For everything from live frogs to microfauna and misting gear, visit OneStopReptileShop.com and get started today.

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