The Cobalt Dyeing Dart Frog (Dendrobates tinctorius 'Cobalt') combines deep blue legs with a dark body and contrasting yellow markings. This day-active frog makes a fascinating planted-terrarium display. The amount of yellow and individual patterning vary; our images are based on the frogs photographed at Newlands.
Origin & Adult Size
The Cobalt form originates from Suriname. Adults are approximately 4.5–5 cm, with females generally larger than males.
Temperature & Humidity
Aim for stable daytime temperatures around 22–25°C with a gentle night drop. Avoid hot spots, direct sunlight and sustained temperatures above 27°C. Maintain high humidity, generally 80–100% with natural fluctuations after misting, alongside effective ventilation and drainage. Check conditions using a digital thermometer and hygrometer.
Enclosure
Prepare a secure planted tropical terrarium with good floor space, ventilation, a drainage layer, moist substrate and plenty of leaf litter, shelters and low climbing branches. For an adult pair, our recommended starting size is 60 × 45 × 45 cm (length × depth × height); larger, well-furnished accommodation is beneficial. Keep the substrate moist rather than waterlogged. Provide gentle daytime lighting, shade and a regular day/night cycle.
Diet
Feed appropriately sized flightless fruit flies, with springtails and other suitable tiny live invertebrates for variety. Feed juveniles daily and adjust adult portions and frequency to body condition. Dust feeders with a suitable amphibian calcium/vitamin supplement according to its instructions. Maintain reliable feeder cultures.
Handling & Care
These are display animals: avoid routine handling to protect their delicate skin. Check each frog's feeding, body condition, temperature and humidity daily. Use amphibian-safe dechlorinated water, remove waste and keep any water dish very shallow with easy exits. Have the terrarium running before collection and ask our team to confirm the animal's current size and feeding routine.
Compatibility
Adults are best kept singly or as a compatible pair. Mature females can be territorial, so juvenile groups may need separating as they grow. Do not mix dart-frog species or colour forms. Monitor feeding and separate animals if bullying occurs.
Lifespan & Breeding
A commitment of around 10 years or more is typical; some well-kept animals live considerably longer. A mature compatible pair may lay eggs in sheltered sites, but successful breeding requires planned egg and tadpole care. Sex and breeding status are not guaranteed.
Click & Collect Only
Buy online and collect from Newlands Reptile Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. We do not ship live animals. Please wait for your ready-to-collect confirmation before travelling.
