Feeling Froggy

Dendrobates auratus Care Guide

Dendrobates auratus

Last updated: September 22, 2026

The Green and Black Poison Dart Frog, Dendrobates auratus, is one of the classic dart frogs of the hobby. They are a little smaller and a little more reclusive than Dendrobates tinctorius, and they handle group housing better than most dart frogs. These frogs are active during the day and can live 8-12 years with appropriate husbandry. They lose their toxicity in captivity when fed a commercial diet.

Housing Requirements

  • Terrarium Size: 18 x 18 x 24 Exo Terra or similar minimum for a pair, add proportional floor space per additional frog for groups
  • Tank Mates: Pairs and small groups both work. Auratus tolerate groups better than tinctorius, and females are not nearly as territorial with each other. Watch any group during breeding season and separate animals that get pushed off food.
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C) during the day, 65-72°F (19-22°C) at night
  • Humidity: 80-100% relative humidity
  • Lighting: Standard vivarium LED on a 12-hour day/night cycle; UVB is not required, dust prey with a quality calcium plus D3 supplement instead

Substrate & Environment

  • ABG mix (Atlanta Botanical Garden mix) or similar well-draining substrate
  • Live plants for natural environment and humidity regulation
  • Plenty of leaf litter, cork bark, and hiding spots. Auratus spend more time in cover than tinctorius, and the more hides you give them the more you will actually see them.
  • Clean, dechlorinated water source

Diet & Feeding

  • Fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster and hydei)
  • Springtails and aphids for variety and for juveniles
  • Auratus are smaller than tinctorius, so melanogaster fruit flies remain the staple even for adults
  • Dust food with calcium and vitamin supplements

Breeding

  • Mature at 12-18 months
  • Males call quietly, and eggs are laid on smooth leaves or in film canisters
  • Tadpoles need individual cups with regular water changes

Special Notes

  • More reclusive than tinctorius. A heavily planted enclosure with deep leaf litter makes them feel secure enough to stay out where you can see them.
  • One of the best dart frogs for keeping in groups
  • Extremely sensitive to chemicals and chlorine
  • Handle only when absolutely necessary for medical care or moving
  • Quarantine all new animals for 30+ days

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