Ranitomeya vanzolinii
Description
Ranitomeya vanzolinii (Myers, 1982), also known as the Brazilian Poison Frog, measures around 18-20 mm. Males are slimmer than females. Their distinctive colour pattern consists of yellow dots on a dark background. For an overview of Ranitomeya vanzolinii patterns, visit Dendrowiki.org.
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Habitat
Their habitats are lowland rainforests, but they can also be found at altitudes up to 1300 meters. They enjoy climbing trees, reaching several meters high. Eggs are laid on the edges of water-filled leaf axils in bromeliads, bamboo trunks, or other water-holding plants. Tadpoles are also deposited in tree holes. For an idea of their natural habitat, visit Dendrowiki.org.
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IUCN status of endangered species
The IUCN status of Ranitomeya vanzolinii is 'Least Concern,' meaning it is unlikely to become endangered or extinct in the near future. Ranitomeya vanzolinii is not threatened and abundant in the region where it is found according to AmphibiaWeb. There is a well known case of smuggling this species for illegal pet trade in 2005.
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Vivarium care and breeding
Vanzoliniis are mostly monogamous and are best housed in pairs. In larger vivariums, multiple pairs can coexist peacefully.
Vanzoliniis lay their eggs on smooth surfaces just above the waterline. Bromeliads work well, or alternatively, vertical film canisters filled with water and a leaf sticking out. They care for their tadpoles, with the female feeding them unfertilized eggs. The best way to raise the frogs is to leave them in the vivarium and let the parent frogs handle the care. However, if you do remove the tadpoles, be aware that they are cannibalistic and must be raised separately.
For a care sheet, visit Josh's Frogs.
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