The Dendrobates tinctorius ‘Tumucumaque’, often referred to as the “Peacock” dart frog, is renowned for its vibrant coloration and captivating behavior. Originating from the Tumucumaque Mountains in Brazil, this morph stands out with its unique patterns and hues, making it a prized addition to any dart frog collection.
🌿 Natural Habitat and Behavior
In the wild, ‘Tumucumaque’ dart frogs inhabit the humid, tropical rainforests of the Guiana Shield. They thrive in environments with high humidity, dense foliage, and abundant leaf litter. These frogs are diurnal, meaning they’re active during the day, and are known for their territorial nature, especially among females.Frogs & Co+1Wikipedia+1
🐣 Breeding and Tadpole Development
Breeding Dendrobates tinctorius ‘Tumucumaque’ requires attention to detail. Males often call to attract females, leading them to suitable egg-laying sites, such as smooth leaves or petri dishes under shelters. Once laid, eggs hatch into tadpoles within 10-14 days. These tadpoles are then transported by the male to water-filled bromeliads or film canisters, where they continue their development over the next 60-90 days.
🛒 Where to Purchase ‘Tumucumaque’ Tadpoles
For enthusiasts looking to add this stunning morph to their collection, Frogfather UK offers healthy, captive-bred Dendrobates tinctorius ‘Azureus’ tadpoles. While ‘Azureus’ is a different morph, it’s essential to note that availability of specific morphs like ‘Tumucumaque’ can vary. Always ensure you’re purchasing from reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their animals.
🧪 Tadpole Care Guidelines
Proper care during the tadpole stage is crucial for healthy development:
- Housing: Individual containers with aged, dechlorinated water.
- Temperature: Maintain water temperatures between 24–26°C using an aquarium heater.YouTube+3YouTube+3Spectra Pets+3
- Feeding: Provide a diet of spirulina flakes, crushed algae wafers, or specialized tadpole food.Reddit
- Water Quality: Perform partial water changes regularly and consider adding Indian almond leaves for natural tannins.Reddit
For a comprehensive guide on dart frog tadpole care, refer to Spectra Pets.Spectra Pets
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does it take for ‘Tumucumaque’ tadpoles to metamorphose?
A: Typically, it takes between 60-90 days, depending on environmental conditions.
Q2: Can I house multiple ‘Tumucumaque’ frogs together?
A: Juveniles can be housed together, but adult females may exhibit territorial aggression.FrogDaddy+1Finn’s Frog Farm+1
Q3: What do ‘Tumucumaque’ tadpoles eat?
A: They thrive on a diet of spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and specialized tadpole food.
Q4: Do I need a water feature in the vivarium?
A: While not mandatory, a shallow water area can aid in breeding and humidity maintenance.
Q5: Are ‘Tumucumaque’ frogs suitable for beginners?
A: They are best suited for keepers with some experience due to their specific care requirements.
Q6: How can I ensure the health of my tadpoles?
A: Maintain clean water, stable temperatures, and provide a nutritious diet.
🏁 Conclusion
Dendrobates tinctorius ‘Tumucumaque’ tadpoles offer a unique opportunity for dart frog enthusiasts to witness the transformation of a vibrant and captivating species. With proper care and attention, these tadpoles will develop into stunning adult frogs, adding a splash of color and intrigue to any vivarium.
