When most people think about shows relevant to dart frogs, their minds jump straight to reptile expos. In reality, some of the most useful events for dart frog keepers in the UK aren’t reptile shows at all — they’re invert shows.
Invert-focused events often fly under the radar for amphibian keepers, but they play a crucial role in the side of dart frog keeping that actually determines long-term success: feeding, microfauna, and bioactive stability.
This article explains what UK invert shows are, what they offer dart frog keepers, and when they’re genuinely worth attending.
Quick reference: UK invert shows 2026 – full calendar, links, and visitor guide
What are invert shows?
Invert shows are events focused on invertebrates rather than reptiles. Depending on the show, this can include:
- isopods
- springtails and feeder cultures
- mantids, stick insects, and beetles
- tarantulas and other arachnids
They are typically smaller than reptile shows, quieter, and more specialised — which is exactly why they can be so valuable for dart frog keepers.
Why invertebrates matter so much for dart frogs
Dart frogs don’t just eat “food” — they rely on a system.
In the wild, poison dart frogs feed constantly on tiny invertebrates while moving through moss, leaf litter, and humid microhabitats. In captivity, that behaviour only works if the environment supports it.
Invert shows are one of the best places to source:
- springtails for continuous feeding
- clean-up crews that stabilise bioactive setups
- specialist knowledge around culturing live food
Without these foundations, feeding becomes artificial and inconsistent.
Related: Dart frog care, guides, and resources
What dart frog keepers actually gain from invert shows
Unlike reptile shows, invert shows rarely focus on livestock impulse buys. Instead, they excel at the behind-the-scenes elements that make dart frog keeping work.
Benefits include:
- access to diverse springtail species
- better-quality feeder cultures
- advice from people who specialise in microfauna
- less crowded, more relaxed environments
For keepers raising froglets or maintaining breeding groups, these benefits are hard to overstate.
Invert shows vs reptile shows for dart frog keepers
Reptile shows and invert shows serve different purposes.
Reptile shows are better for:
- vivariums and hardware
- lighting and control equipment
- general bioactive supplies
Invert shows are better for:
- microfauna and feeders
- isopods and clean-up crews
- long-term feeding stability
Many experienced dart frog keepers attend both, but with very different goals.
Related reading: UK reptile shows 2025–2026 – full dates and locations
Are invert shows good places to buy dart frogs?
No — and that’s a good thing.
Invert shows rarely sell amphibians, which removes the pressure and risk associated with buying frogs in a busy, unfamiliar environment.
Instead, they support dart frog keeping indirectly by strengthening:
- feeding routines
- bioactive ecosystems
- long-term enclosure health
This is one reason invert shows are often more useful to established keepers than beginners looking for their first frogs.
Who should attend invert shows?
Invert shows are particularly valuable if:
- you keep dart frogs long-term
- you breed frogs or raise froglets
- you rely on springtails and microfauna
- you want to stabilise bioactive setups
If your main goal is buying frogs themselves, invert shows won’t be the right fit — but for everything that keeps frogs healthy afterwards, they’re hard to beat.
Planning an invert show visit
As with reptile shows, preparation matters.
Before attending:
- check which traders are attending
- decide what cultures or species you need
- bring suitable containers for live cultures
Invert shows reward intention. Turning up without a plan often leads to missed opportunities.
How invert shows fit into a balanced approach
The most successful dart frog keepers in the UK tend to use a blended approach:
- invert shows for microfauna and feeders
- reptile shows for equipment
- specialist breeders for frogs themselves
Each type of event supports a different part of the system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are invert shows suitable for beginner dart frog keepers?
Yes, particularly for learning about feeding and microfauna, though beginners may still need guidance when setting up their first bioactive systems.
Do UK invert shows sell live dart frogs?
No. Invert shows focus on invertebrates and related supplies, not amphibians.
Are invert shows better than reptile shows for frog food?
Often yes. Invert shows usually offer greater variety and higher-quality microfauna and feeder cultures.
How often do UK invert shows run?
They are less frequent than reptile shows but are spread throughout the year. Checking an up-to-date calendar is recommended.
Key takeaway: UK invert shows don’t replace reptile shows for dart frog keepers — they complement them. For feeding, microfauna, and long-term bioactive stability, invert shows are often the most valuable events you can attend.
