Description
Ranitomeya imitator ‘Intermedius’ Tadpoles – UK Captive Bred
Experience the remarkable transformation of a thumbnail dart frog with our captive-bred Ranitomeya imitator ‘Intermedius’ tadpoles, produced through our own breeding programme at The Frogfather in Nottingham.
These miniature poison dart frogs are admired for their striking yellow-and-black colouration, beautifully patterned limbs and fascinating parental behaviour. Raising them from tadpoles provides a unique opportunity to observe their development into tiny terrestrial froglets.
Meet the Intermedius Form
The name ‘Intermedius’ is used in the dart frog hobby for a historically recognised form of Ranitomeya imitator. It should not be confused with a separate currently accepted species.
Our breeding animals display bold yellow markings against a glossy black background, complemented by intricate pale patterning on their limbs.
Individual offspring may vary in their markings and colour intensity as they develop.
Captive Bred at The Frogfather
Our tadpoles originate from our own captive breeding colony in Nottingham, where we maintain the parent animals in carefully managed, planted bioactive vivariums.
Ranitomeya imitator is particularly interesting for its reproductive behaviour, including parental tadpole transport and care.
We take pride in responsible captive breeding and helping other amphibian enthusiasts understand the requirements of these remarkable animals.
What Will You Receive?
- One captive-bred Ranitomeya imitator ‘Intermedius’ tadpole
- Suitable individual transport packaging
- A developing tadpole selected from available stock
- Practical husbandry guidance from The Frogfather
Developmental stages vary naturally, and an exact metamorphosis date cannot be guaranteed.
Raising Your Tadpole
Thumbnail dart frog tadpoles require carefully maintained aquatic conditions, appropriate nutrition and regular observation.
We recommend individual rearing to make it easier to monitor growth, feeding and water quality.
- Use appropriately prepared, clean water.
- Maintain stable temperatures and avoid overheating.
- Provide suitable aquatic tadpole food.
- Remove deteriorating uneaten food.
- Monitor growth and limb development.
- Prepare safe terrestrial accommodation before metamorphosis.
Recommended Tadpole Grow-Out Kit
Prepare for Every Stage
Our Tadpole Grow-Out Kit & Bioactive Tub is a convenient companion purchase for customers preparing to raise dart frog tadpoles.
It helps organise the aquatic rearing stage and provides a starting point for preparing a terrestrial grow-out environment.
Important: Newly metamorphosed Ranitomeya are exceptionally small. Check that any grow-out enclosure is fully escape-proof and suitable for thumbnail froglets before use.
From Tadpole to Froglet
As development progresses, your tadpole will grow hind legs, followed by front legs, before gradually absorbing its tail.
At metamorphosis, it must be able to leave the water safely and enter an appropriately humid terrestrial environment.
Newly emerged froglets require secure housing, suitable ventilation, sheltered areas and extremely small live foods.
Feeding Your Froglets
Very small springtails are particularly useful for newly emerged thumbnail dart frogs. Appropriately sized fruit flies can be introduced as the froglets grow.
Suitable feeder insects should be supplemented as part of a balanced feeding programme.
Our All-in-One Vitamin & Mineral Dust is designed for lightly dusting suitable feeder insects at every feed.
Do not add vitamin or mineral dust directly to tadpole water.
Preparing a Bioactive Vivarium
As your froglets develop, they will need a secure, planted tropical enclosure with suitable climbing surfaces, shelter and established microfauna.
Natural leaf litter helps provide hiding places and supports a diverse forest-floor environment.
Our Forest Floor Tamarind Leaves are a useful addition to a suitably prepared terrestrial vivarium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these tadpoles captive-bred?
Yes. They originate from our own breeding colony at The Frogfather in Nottingham.
Is Ranitomeya intermedius a separate species?
The name ‘Intermedius’ is associated with a historical form of Ranitomeya imitator. We use it here to identify the breeding line rather than to claim separate species status.
Can I raise several tadpoles together?
We recommend individual rearing to simplify monitoring and reduce competition or injury.
How long will metamorphosis take?
Development depends on the individual, temperature, nutrition and water conditions. We cannot guarantee a particular metamorphosis date.
What should I feed newly emerged froglets?
Very small live foods, particularly appropriately sized springtails, are commonly used during the earliest terrestrial stages.
Can I purchase a complete rearing kit?
Yes. Our Tadpole Grow-Out Kit & Bioactive Tub provides equipment to help prepare for tadpole development and metamorphosis.
Availability and Collection
Availability varies according to our breeding programme and the developmental stages of our tadpoles.
Collection by appointment from Nottingham.
Please ensure suitable aquatic and terrestrial housing is prepared before purchasing.
By The Frogfather
Nottingham, United Kingdom
