Strawberry Poison Dart Frog
Strawberry Poison Dart Frog
The straberryfrog is found in the tropical rainforests along the Atlantic coast of Central America from northern Guatermala to Panama. The greatest concentration has been found in Costa Rica. Red spells danger where the strawberry poison dart frog is concerned. This deadly amphibian produces one of nature’s most toxic poisons, while its flamboyant colour warns other animals that they eat it at their peril. Its name reflects the fact that certain tribes rub their dart tips in the poisonous mucus of the frog’s skin, creating supremely effective weapons. Scientists are investigating this poison for possible medicinal uses. The poison dart frog is also remarkable for its highly evolved parental care.
Fierce defenders
The strawberry frog is active during the day, when its bright red skin glows, as a clearly visible warning to predators. Only the snakes, Leimadophis epinephelus, is immune to its poison. Often described as the jewel of the rainforest, this tiny frog lives near water in leaf litter and moss and on low, overhanging branches. The moist atmosphera of the rainforest stops its skin drying out. Strawberry frogs are agressive and highly territorial. Males and occasionally females, will fight intruders, wrestling rivals with their hind legs, often to the death. These frogs seldom stray far from their home area.
Part of bodies
- Large black eyes – with lids
- Bright red colouration – advertise its poison
- Vocal sac – is only present in the male
- poison glands – in skin
- Strong legs – are usually purple-blue in colour
Statistic
- Status – locally comman
- lenght – 2-2.5 cm
- habit – terrestrial
- sexual maturity – 1 year
- breeding season – October-march
- incubation period – 10-12 days
- number of eggs – 4-6 per cluth
- breeding interval – every other month
- diet – ants, termites, small spiders and beetles
- lifespan – more than 10 years
Myth or fact
The strawberry poison dart frog cannot kill by touch alone; it causes convulsions and ultimately death only if the toxins from its skin enter the bloodstream through a cut or by being ingested by putting the finger that touched the frog in the mouth. Even the golden poison dart frog, the most poisonous frog of all, is not lethal if simply touched, although surgical gloves are recommended.
