description Red-backed Poison Frog Overview
The Red-backed Poison Frog (Ranitomeya reticulata) is a small Peruvian dendrobatid recognized by its reticulated red-and-black pattern and is one of the more widespread members of the Ranitomeya genus.
insights Ranking position
Red-backed Poison Frog ranks #84 of 213 in the Amphibian ranking, behind Orange-eyed Tree Frog, ahead of European Tree Frog.
help Red-backed Poison Frog FAQ
Where does the red-backed poison frog live in the wild?
Ranitomeya reticulata occurs in lowland rainforest in northeastern Peru. It lives close to the forest floor and uses humid leaf litter and small water-holding plants.
How large does Ranitomeya reticulata grow?
This is a thumbnail poison frog, with adults measuring roughly 15 millimeters in body length. Its small size distinguishes it from larger dendrobatids such as Dendrobates tinctorius.
Is a captive-bred red-backed poison frog poisonous?
Captive-bred poison frogs generally lack the potent skin alkaloids found in wild individuals because their captive diet does not supply the same chemical precursors. They should still be handled minimally because their delicate, permeable skin is easily harmed.
Why is the species called reticulata?
The name refers to the netlike or reticulated pattern visible on parts of the frog's body and limbs. Adults typically combine a vivid red or orange back with dark markings and patterned legs.
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