Description
Other Names (How it Got Its Names)
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Commonly called the Blue Splash-Back Poison Dart Frog or Blue Galactonotus.
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The genus name Adelphobates comes from Greek roots meaning “brother frog,” referencing its close relation to other Dendrobates and Adelphobates species.
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“Galactonotus” translates roughly to “milky-backed,” due to the lighter dorsal coloring seen in wild-type forms. The “Blue” morph refers to the striking blue tones bred in captivity.
Characteristics
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Bold, vibrant coloration with deep blue or turquoise tones across the body.
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Smooth skin texture, slender body type.
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Diurnal (active during the day) and highly visual hunters.
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Captive-bred morph — not commonly found in the wild.
Recommended Vivarium Size
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Minimum: 18” x 18” x 18” (20-gallon tall) for a pair.
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Ideal: 36” x 18” x 18” (40-gallon breeder or larger) for groups, allowing vertical and horizontal climbing space.
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Must include live plants, leaf litter, and hiding spots.
Temperature
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Daytime: 72–78°F (22–25°C).
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Nighttime: 68–72°F (20–22°C).
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Avoid prolonged exposure above 80°F, as this can cause stress or death.
Humidity
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70–90% range, maintained with daily misting or automated misting system.
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High humidity is critical, but ensure adequate ventilation to prevent stagnant air.
Size of Frog
Life Span
Feeding
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Primary diet: flightless fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster and D. hydei).
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Supplement with springtails, isopods, and pinhead crickets for variety.
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Dust feeders with calcium and multivitamins 2–3 times per week.
Color/Pattern
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This morph shows striking shades of blue, often with darker marbling or spotting across the body.
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Unlike wild galactonotus which can be orange, yellow, or red, the blue morph is selectively bred for its unique coloration.
Social Behavior
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Generally best kept in pairs or small groups of the same morph.
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Can be territorial, especially males during breeding season.
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Provide ample space and visual barriers to reduce aggression.
How to Determine Sex
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Males: usually smaller, slimmer, and develop visible toe pads for calling. They also emit soft trills or buzz-like calls.
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Females: larger, rounder body shape, especially when carrying eggs.
How to Breed
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Condition frogs with abundant food and stable environmental conditions.
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Provide a horizontal laying surface (film canisters, petri dishes, or broad leaves).
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Males will call to attract females.
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Eggs are deposited on smooth, moist surfaces and typically hatch into tadpoles within 10–14 days.
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Tadpoles must be removed and raised separately in aquatic setups until metamorphosis.
