The genus name "Oophaga" means something like "egg eater". This name refers to the diet of the tadpoles. The mother feeds them with unfertilized eggs. After about 3 months, the metamorphosis of the tadpoles into frogs is complete.
Oophaga anchicayensis was only described as an independent species in 2018. It is only found in a small distribution area in Colombia.
Like all tree frogs, the skin of the anchicayá poison dart frog is coated with venom. The frogs produce this toxin by eating poisonous insects.
| Relatives |
Frog amphibians, tree climbing frogs, Oophaga |
| Habitat |
Tropical lowland rainforests and secondary forests, both on the ground and on plants |
| Lifestyle |
Daily active in branches and on the ground |
| Food |
Insects and other arthropods |
| Size |
36 - 42 mm |
| Weight |
4 - 5 g |
| Reproduction |
The female lays 3 - 5 eggs on a bromeliad leaf. These are fertilized by the male. They are then guarded and moisturized by him. The tadpoles hatch after approx. 2 weeks. The female transports them individually into water-filled bromeliad funnels. |
| At Zoo Zurich since |
2000 |
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Sponsors
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Ch. Meier, Hinwil |
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L. Alvaro + M. Schuler, Schwyz |
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S. Jäger, Stäfa |
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D. Bischof, Triesen |
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H. Sandmeier, Neftenbach |
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G. Roderer, Zürich |
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D. Isolda, Zürich |
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A. Sostizzo, Gossau SG |
