UVB & Lighting in Dart Frog Vivariums: Myth vs Science

Dart frog in a planted vivarium under UVB light with shaded and exposed areas

Do Dart Frogs Really Need UVB?

Short answer: not strictly — but low-level UVB can benefit dart frogs when used correctly.

In the wild, dart frogs live in shaded rainforest but still receive filtered UVB through canopy gaps. This helps regulate:

  • Calcium metabolism via vitamin D₃ synthesis
  • Immune function
  • Skin health & colouration

When UVB Helps in Captivity

  • In breeding groups or with egg-laying females (higher calcium demands)
  • Where frogs don’t consume enough supplement powder
  • In large, planted setups with dense cover
  • For wild-caught imports adjusting to artificial conditions

Risks of Too Much UVB

Dart frogs are light-sensitive. Overexposure may cause:

  • Hiding behaviour or stress
  • Skin burn or eye damage
  • Inactivity or reduced feeding

☀️ Ideal safe range: 1–2% UVB output from 12–14 inches away, with shaded zones.


Best UVB Options for Dart Frogs

TypeStrengthMounting Notes
Arcadia ShadeDweller 2.5%Low UVBGreat for 45 cm vivs
Exo Terra Natural Light 2.0Full-spectrum onlyNo UVB – good for plant growth
Jungle Dawn LED + Arcadia Mini UVBCustom comboSeparates daylight and UVB
T5HO 5% with meshDistant canopy tanksOnly if well shaded below

🛠️ Pair with 3D Printed Light Risers to reduce burn risk and improve airflow.


Lighting Schedules & Photoperiod

SeasonLight DurationNotes
Dry Season10–11 hours/dayLess misting, shorter daylight simulates winter
Wet Season12–13 hours/dayEncourages breeding & activity
UK Standard12 hrs on / 12 hrs offPerfect year-round balance

Use smart plugs or timers to automate day-night cycles. Avoid leaving lights on longer than 14 hours — it can stress both frogs and plants.


Best Placement for UVB Fixtures

  • Mount outside the mesh lid to reduce intensity
  • Angle at 45° for indirect exposure
  • Provide shade zones with cork bark, foliage or canopy
  • Test levels with a UVB meter (Solarmeter 6.5) if possible

✅ UVB light does not penetrate glass or acrylic — always place above mesh if present.


Complementary Lighting for Plant Growth

LED grow lights (e.g. Jungle Dawn or NICREW) support lush plants like:

  • Peperomia, Ficus, Pilea, Begonia, Selaginella
  • Mosses, bromeliads, climbing vines

Look for 6,500–7,000K spectrum and combine with UVB for full coverage.

🛒 Browse terrarium plants & lighting gear »


Final Thoughts: Is UVB Required?

No — but it is increasingly recommended in UK best practice, especially for breeders, long-term keepers, or naturalistic setups.

The key is balance:
✅ Low UVB
✅ Reliable photoperiod
✅ Proper placement
✅ Variety in lighting levels


FAQ

Q: Can I keep frogs with only LED lights?
Yes, if you supplement their food consistently with D3+ calcium powders.

Q: How long should UVB bulbs last?
Replace every 9–12 months, even if light is still visible. UVB output drops long before the bulb burns out.

Q: Do I need UVB for froglets?
Not necessarily — most keepers raise froglets under ambient light with strong supplementation.

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