Description
Ranitomeya variabilis “Southern” Tadpoles
Raise your own Ranitomeya variabilis “Southern” from tadpole to froglet with captive bred stock from Frogfather. This is a fantastic choice for keepers who want a small, active and visually striking thumbnail dart frog with proper breeding-line appeal.
The Southern form of Ranitomeya variabilis is a beautiful thumbnail dart frog known for its lively behaviour, compact size and bold use of planted vertical space. Once mature, they are well suited to carefully planned, humid, bioactive vivariums with good planting, leaf litter, climbing structure and stable environmental conditions.
These tadpoles are sold individually and should be raised with care, patience and clean water management. For many keepers, raising tadpoles is one of the most rewarding parts of dart frog keeping, giving you the chance to watch the full transformation from aquatic tadpole to tiny froglet.
Key Features
- Species: Ranitomeya variabilis “Southern”
- Stage: Tadpole
- Origin: Captive bred in the UK
- Adult size: Approx. 1.8–2.0 cm
- Temperament: Active, alert and rewarding to observe
- Setup style: Humid, planted, bioactive vivarium with vertical structure
- Best for: Keepers with some dart frog or tadpole-raising experience
Why Choose Southern Variabilis?
Ranitomeya variabilis are popular thumbnail dart frogs because they combine small size, excellent colour, interesting behaviour and strong vivarium presence. They are not large frogs, but in the right setup they can be surprisingly visible and active.
The “Southern” form is especially appealing for keepers looking to build a dedicated thumbnail frog project rather than simply adding a display animal. They do best when given a well-planted, stable environment with plenty of climbing routes, visual cover and small breeding sites such as film canisters or egg-laying cups.
If you are building a naturalistic setup for this species, you may also find our vivarium plants, bioactive supplies and live food useful when preparing the enclosure.
Tadpole Care
These tadpoles should be raised individually in clean, dechlorinated or remineralised water. Use small containers, stable temperatures and regular water changes. Avoid sudden swings in water quality, temperature or feeding routine.
- Raise tadpoles individually to reduce competition and avoid damage.
- Keep water clean with sensible, regular partial water changes.
- Feed sparingly with suitable tadpole foods such as spirulina-based foods, fine fish flakes or specialist tadpole diets.
- Remove uneaten food before it fouls the water.
- Maintain stable temperatures of around 22–26°C.
- As front legs emerge and the tail begins to absorb, transition carefully into a secure froglet grow-out setup.
For a broader overview of eggs, tadpoles and breeding problems, see our Dart Frog Breeding Guide.
Perfect For
- Keepers wanting to raise thumbnail dart frogs from tadpoles
- Bioactive vivarium enthusiasts
- Ranitomeya keepers looking for a Southern variabilis project
- Experienced beginners moving into smaller dart frog species
- Breeders and hobbyists looking for captive bred UK stock
Important Notes
These are live amphibians and are available for UK purchase only. Tadpoles are sold individually unless otherwise stated. Availability may be limited depending on breeding cycles, development stage and safe shipping conditions.
Live animal delivery is arranged carefully and may be delayed during unsuitable weather. We use appropriate live animal delivery methods and will contact you to arrange a suitable dispatch or courier window.
Need help preparing for them? Browse our dart frog products, vivariums, live food and FAQ before ordering.
Live Animal Disclaimer
This product is a live amphibian and is available for UK legal purchase and delivery only. By purchasing, you confirm that you are 18+ and that keeping this species is legal in your location.
Animal welfare comes first. Dispatch will only take place when temperatures, courier availability and the animal’s condition are suitable.
