Description

Phantasmal Dart Frog (Epipedobates anthonyi) – UK Captive Bred

The Phantasmal Dart Frog (Epipedobates anthonyi) is one of the most underrated species in the hobby — combining bold behaviour, striking colours, and excellent hardiness into one small but incredibly active frog.

Unlike many dart frogs that prefer to hide, these are confident, visible, and constantly on the move, making them ideal for display vivariums.

All of our frogs are captive bred (CB), meaning they are completely non-toxic and well-established on captive diets.

🌍 Origin & Natural Behaviour

Native to South-West Ecuador and Northern Peru, Phantasmal Dart Frogs inhabit forest edges and streamside environments where humidity is high and temperatures are stable.

In captivity, they thrive in bioactive vivariums with leaf litter, moss, and dense planting — replicating their natural environment.

🎨 Appearance

• Base colour ranges from copper, red, or bronze
• Distinct cream, yellow, or light blue stripes running along the body
• Subtle iridescence under strong lighting
• Adult size: approximately 25–30mm

Each frog is slightly unique, with variation in stripe colour and intensity.

🔥 Care & Setup

• Temperature: 22–26°C daytime, slight night drop
• Humidity: 80–100%
• Setup: Bioactive vivarium with drainage layer and leaf litter
• Space: Terrestrial species – prefers floor space over height

They are highly active and benefit from well-planted enclosures with plenty of cover, cork bark, and natural climbing structures.

🍽 Feeding

Phantasmal Dart Frogs are enthusiastic feeders and will readily take:

• Flightless fruit flies
• Springtails (essential in bioactive setups)
• Small micro crickets

All food should be dusted with a high-quality calcium and vitamin supplement to support long-term health.

🐸 Behaviour & Suitability

• Bold and visible species
• Active during the day (diurnal)
• Suitable for beginners and experienced keepers
• Can be kept in small groups

This species is widely regarded as hardy and beginner-friendly, while still offering the colour and personality experienced keepers look for. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

⚠️ Important Information

• Captive bred dart frogs are non-toxic due to diet differences in captivity :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• These are display animals – handling should be kept to a minimum
• Live animal – collection or specialist courier required

📦 Why Buy From Frogfather?

• UK captive bred stock
• Raised in bioactive environments
• Feeding strongly on fruit flies and microfauna
• Ongoing support and husbandry advice included

At Frogfather, everything is built around ethical keeping, proper environments, and long-term success.