Ranitomeya sirensis
Description
Ranitomeya sirensis (Aichinger, 1991), also called the Pasco Poison Frog, are between 12 - 21 mm tall depending on the specific variant. For an overview of Ranitomeya sirensis variants see Dendrowiki.org
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Habitat
They inhabit rainforests rich in water-holding plants like bromeliads, bamboo, Heliconia, and Xanthosoma, at altitudes ranging from 350 to 1700 meters. There are both lowland and highland variants of Ranitomeya sirensis. Be sure to check the origin of your frogs to determine if you have a lowland or highland variant, as this will help you set the correct vivarium temperatures. For an idea of their natural habitat, visit Dendrobase.de and refer to the description under their former name, Ranitomeya lamasi.
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IUCN status of endangered species
The IUCN status of Ranitomeya sirensis is 'Least Concern,' meaning it is unlikely to become endangered or extinct in the near future. However, the species faces threats from capture for the international pet trade, which can make the species or some of its colour morphs locally endangered.
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Vivarium care and breeding
They can be housed in pairs or in small groups of 5-6 males and females in larger vivariums.
Sirensis frogs lay their eggs in bromeliads, or alternatively, in vertical film canisters filled with water and a leaf sticking out. The female frog cares for the tadpoles by feeding them unfertilized eggs. There's no need to remove the tadpoles from the vivarium for separate rearing. However, if you do, be aware that the tadpoles are cannibalistic and must be raised separately.
For a care sheet, visit Dendroboard.com.
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