Hyloxalus azureiventris Dart Frog for Sale UK

Hyloxalus azureiventris, often called the Sky-Blue Poison Dart Frog, is one of the most striking and unusual South American amphibians. Famous for its electric-blue underside and elegant body shape, this rare species offers a completely different look and behaviour to the more familiar Ranitomeya and Dendrobates frogs. It’s a beautiful choice for experienced keepers seeking something distinct and rewarding to observe.

Origin & Distribution

This species hails from the Huallaga River basin in central Peru, where it inhabits tropical lowland forests near streams and damp leaf litter. It lives at altitudes between 200 and 800 metres, preferring shaded areas with constant moisture and dense foliage. In the wild, they are closely associated with slow-moving water and moss-covered terrain, where their eggs and tadpoles develop.

Size, Lifespan & Appearance

Adult Hyloxalus azureiventris reach around 30–35 mm in size, with a slender, elegant build. Their dorsal surface is typically dark brown to grey, contrasting sharply with their bright, sky-blue belly and limbs. The blue underside often flashes into view as they move, creating a shimmering effect that gives the species its common name. In captivity, they can live 8–10 years under stable conditions.

Temperature & Humidity

Keep daytime temperatures between 22–25 °C, with a gentle drop to 20 °C at night. Humidity should remain high — around 85–95% — but with moderate ventilation to prevent stagnation. These frogs appreciate a consistent misting schedule and access to damp moss and shallow water. Good air circulation, achieved with cross-ventilation panels, is essential for their long-term health.

Vivarium Setup

Hyloxalus azureiventris is a semi-terrestrial species that spends much of its time on the ground near water, though it occasionally climbs low vegetation. A 60 × 45 × 45 cm enclosure works well for a pair. Use a bioactive substrate with sphagnum moss, cork bark, and scattered leaf litter. Include shallow pools or small running-water features to mimic their natural streamside environment. The 3D Vented Vivarium is perfect for this purpose, offering excellent airflow while maintaining high humidity. Plant heavily with tropical species like Pothos and Selaginella to help stabilise moisture.

Diet

Feed daily with a varied diet of fruit flies, springtails, and micro-crickets. They are active hunters, moving quickly across the substrate to capture prey. Dust all live food with All-in-One Vitamin & Mineral Dust at least every other feeding. This complete supplement provides balanced calcium, vitamins, and carotenoids for vivid colouration and strong health.

Social Behaviour

This species is best kept as a pair. Males can be territorial, especially in smaller enclosures. While not aggressive, they will establish and defend small calling sites. Provide plenty of hides and sight breaks using cork bark and plants. They are relatively shy but become more visible once acclimated, often exploring or hunting openly during the day.

Calling & Activity

The male’s call is a soft clicking or ticking sound, quite different from the buzzing or trilling calls of Ranitomeya. It’s quiet and rhythmic, easily audible only within a few metres. Activity levels peak in the morning and after misting, when humidity is at its highest.

Breeding & Parental Care

Breeding Hyloxalus azureiventris can be challenging but deeply rewarding. The female deposits eggs on moist leaves or under moss near water sources. The male guards the clutch, keeping it hydrated until hatching. Once the tadpoles emerge, he transports them on his back to shallow water areas, where they develop on a diet of biofilm and plant matter. Tadpole development takes around 10–12 weeks before metamorphosis. Their reliance on water access makes a well-balanced land-to-water ratio crucial for successful breeding.

Visibility & Boldness

While initially shy, Hyloxalus azureiventris becomes noticeably more confident with time and stable conditions. They are moderately visible, often seen foraging along mossy ground or sitting near water features. Their reflective blue undersides and active hunting make them a captivating species to watch, especially in naturalistic setups.

Availability in the UK

Hyloxalus azureiventris dart frogs for sale in the UK are rare but occasionally available from specialist breeders and enthusiasts. Frogfather UK works to source captive-bred specimens whenever possible, helping to maintain this remarkable species in the hobby. Their unique blue colouring, streamside behaviour, and subtle calls make them a true gem for advanced keepers.

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