description Golden Poison Frog Overview
The golden poison frog (Phyllobates terribilis) is a highly toxic amphibian endemic to the Pacific coast of Colombia in South America. It is widely considered one of the most poisonous animals on the planet, with its skin secreting lethal amounts of batrachotoxin, an alkaloid poison that permanently disrupts the nervous system. Indigenous Emberá people historically utilized the frog's toxic secretions to poison the tips of blowgun darts for hunting.
help Golden Poison Frog FAQ
How lethal is the toxin of a golden poison frog?
The golden poison frog (Phyllobates terribilis) is widely considered the most poisonous animal on Earth, with a single frog containing enough batrachotoxin to kill up to 10 to 20 humans. The alkaloid poison attacks the nervous system, leading to paralysis and heart failure.
Where does the golden poison frog live in the wild?
This highly toxic amphibian is endemic to the Pacific coast of Colombia in South America. It specifically thrives in the humid rainforests of the Chocó region.
How do golden poison frogs get their batrachotoxin?
Golden poison frogs do not naturally produce batrachotoxin but instead synthesize it from their diet of specific insects, such as certain beetles and ants, found in their native habitat. Frogs raised in captivity without this specialized diet lose their toxicity over time.
How big does the golden poison frog get?
Despite its deadly reputation, the golden poison frog is quite small, typically growing to only about 5 to 6 centimeters (2 to 2.5 inches) in length. Adults are usually a vibrant, uniform yellow to signal their toxicity to potential predators.
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