Killer frog. Poison dart frog.

Poison frogs, also known as poison dart frogs or dendrobatid frogs, are a group of brightly colored frogs found primarily in Central and South America. They are known for their vibrant colors and potent skin toxins, which serve as a defense mechanism against predators.

Here are some key features and characteristics of poison frogs:

Size and Appearance: Poison frogs are generally small in size, ranging from about 1 to 6 centimeters (0.4 to 2.4 inches) in length. They exhibit a wide range of colors, including vivid combinations of red, orange, yellow, blue, green, and black. These vibrant colors serve as a warning to potential predators, indicating their toxicity.

Toxicity: Poison frogs are among the most toxic creatures on Earth. The bright colors of their skin are a visual signal to predators, indicating that they contain dangerous toxins. The toxins are derived from the frogs' diet, consisting of small arthropods such as ants, termites, and beetles. The toxins are stored in the frogs' skin glands, and even touching or ingesting the skin secretions can be harmful or lethal to many predators.

Diversity: There are over 200 known species of poison frogs, belonging to the family Dendrobatidae. Each species has its unique coloration and toxicity levels. Some species, such as the golden poison frog (Phyllobates terribilis), are particularly potent and have enough toxin to kill several adult humans.

Habitat: Poison frogs are mainly found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, primarily in countries like Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil. They inhabit diverse ecosystems, including the forest floor, leaf litter, and vegetation in and around streams and water bodies.

Behavior: Poison frogs are diurnal creatures, meaning they are active during the day. They are agile climbers and spend much of their time in the trees or on the forest floor. Their bright colors serve as a warning to predators, indicating their toxicity and discouraging any potential attack. Some species also exhibit parental care, with males taking care of the eggs and tadpoles.

Conservation: Many species of poison frogs are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and illegal collection for the pet trade. Several conservation efforts are in place to protect these fascinating creatures, including the establishment of protected areas and captive breeding programs.

It's important to note that while poison frogs are highly toxic in their natural habitat, in captivity, their toxicity is significantly reduced due to differences in diet and environment. Nonetheless, they should still be treated with caution and respect.