The blue arrow frog or Dendrobates azureus belongs to the Dendrobatidae family, diurnal amphibians that live in jungle areas. They present unique and vibrant colorations that indicate to whom their high level of toxicity is found.
Physical appearance
Although its name is the blue arrow frog, it can present different shades that vary between light-blue to dark bluish-purple, including black spots. Each individual is different and unique.
This is a very small frog that measures between 40 and 50 mm in length, the male differs from the female because it is smaller, thinner and sings in the adult stage.
The colors it shows are a warning of the deadly poison for many animals, including humans.
Behaviour
These are terrestrial frogs, although they enjoy being near water to splash around. The males are very territorial with members of their own species and others, which is why they spend most of the day defending their territory through various sounds.
It is also with these sounds that the male attracts the female. At 14 - 18 months of life, the blue arrow frog reaches sexual maturity and courtships begin to be evident, not at all shy. After copulation, the females use dark and humid places to lay, where between 4 and 5 eggs usually appear.
Feeding
Blue Arrow Frogs are primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects such as ants, flies, and caterpillars. These insects are the ones that produce formic acid, essential for them to synthesize the poison. For this reason, captive-bred frogs are not toxic, since they are deprived of certain types of insects that make them harmless.
State of conservation
The blue arrow frog is in a vulnerable state, that is, it is threatened Its continuous capture and deforestation of its natural environment they are destroying existing populations. For this reason, if you want to acquire a blue arrow frog, it is very important that you ask for the approved reptile ownership certificate. Do not buy through strangers on the Internet and be suspicious of any toxic dendrobates, as it may be due to its illegal capture.
Care
If you are considering adopting a blue arrow frog you should know that its maintenance, the economic costs and the dedication they require will require a lot of time and effort. For your new pet to be in perfect condition, you must meet at least these minimum conditions:
- Provide him a terrarium of at least 45 x 40 x 40.
- They are very territorial, don't mix two males.
- Set the temperature between 21ºC and 30ºC.
- The humidity will be between 70% and 100%, these are tropical frogs.
- Adds low ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Furthermore, in the terrarium the frog must have space to move and move around, trunks and leaves to climb on, a small pool with water and plants. You can add bromeliads, vines, ficus…
He alth
It is important to have an exotic specialist nearby, if you observe secretions or strange behavior go to him to identify the problem. They are sensitive to contracting parasitic diseases if they are not properly cared for.
They can also suffer from dehydration, fungi or nutritional deficiencies. The vet can recommend vitamins if he sees fit
