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Phyllobates Terribilis "Mint" Care Guide

Phyllobates Terribilis "Mint"

Last updated: September 22, 2026

The Mint locality of Phyllobates terribilis is a striking variant known for its pale lime-green to mint coloration, sometimes with a soft golden undertone. Native to the humid Pacific lowland rainforests of Colombia, these frogs inhabit leaf litter and low vegetation in consistently wet, warm environments.

Like the Orange Blackfoot, the Mint Terribilis is social, bold, and highly active, making it one of the most visible dart frogs in a planted vivarium. In captivity, they are non-toxic and equally long-lived, capable of thriving in small colonies when provided with stable heat, humidity, and abundant cover.

Housing Requirements

  • Terrarium Size: A large horizontal Exo Terra or similar enclosure (minimum 24″ × 18″ × 18″) is ideal for a small group. This locality benefits from both horizontal and vertical space.
  • Temperature: Maintain 72-78 °F (22-26 °C) during the day and allow a nighttime drop to 68-72 °F (20-22 °C).
  • Humidity: Keep 80-100% relative humidity with consistent misting and good airflow.
  • 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
  • Tankmates Terribilis are peaceful group frogs. Individuals of all ages and sexes coexist well and display social behaviors such as communal calling and feeding.

Substrate & Environment

  • Use ABG mix or similar well-draining substrate with a drainage layer and live plants for humidity regulation.
  • Live plants for natural environment and humidity regulation
  • Add leaf litter, moss, and cork bark hides to mimic their natural forest floor environment.
  • Mist dechlorinated or RO water several times daily to maintain humidity; an automated system like MistKing is ideal.

Diet & Feeding

  • Feed a variety of Drosophila melanogaster and D. hydei fruit flies, springtails, aphids, and pinhead crickets for larger juveniles or adults.
  • Dust all prey with calcium and vitamin supplements at every feeding.
  • Feed juveniles daily and adults 3-4 times per week.

Breeding

  • Frogs typically mature between 12-18 months.
  • Breeding occurs readily in stable, well-established groups.
  • Eggs are often deposited on broad leaves or smooth surfaces; tadpoles can be reared in individual cups or shallow communal setups with frequent water changes.

Special Notes

  • Sensitive to chemicals and chlorine, use only purified or RO water.
  • Handle only when absolutely necessary for medical care or moving to avoid stress or skin damage.
  • Quarantine all new arrivals for at least 30 days before introduction.

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