Description
Other Names (How it Got Its Names)
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Common names: Bumblebee Dart Frog, Yellow-Banded Poison Dart Frog, Fine Spot Leucomelas.
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Leucomelas means “white and black,” referencing the original species description.
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The “Fine Spot” morph refers to its unique pattern — instead of wide yellow bands, this variety has numerous fine yellow spots over a darker base.
Characteristics
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Bold, active, and vocal dart frog.
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Known for being hardy and adaptable in captivity, often recommended for beginners.
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Males produce a loud, buzzy trill call.
Recommended Vivarium Size
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Minimum: 18” x 18” x 18” for a pair or small group.
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Larger enclosures (24” x 18” x 18” or bigger) are ideal for groups of 4–6.
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Provide leaf litter, cork, and dense planting for cover and egg deposition sites.
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 sustained exposure above 80°F.
Humidity
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70–90%, with misting once or twice daily.
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Needs moist microhabitats and hiding areas but also benefits from good airflow.
Size of Frog
Life Span
Feeding
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Main diet: fruit flies (D. melanogaster and D. hydei).
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Supplements: springtails, isopods, and pinhead crickets.
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Feed daily; dust prey regularly with calcium and vitamins.
Color/Pattern
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The Fine Spot morph shows a black base color covered with many small, bright yellow spots instead of broad bands.
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Each frog’s pattern is unique, but the spotted look distinguishes it from the classic banded leucomelas.
Social Behavior
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Social and generally tolerant of group housing, especially in spacious enclosures.
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Males may call frequently but are not usually aggressive.
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Group dynamics improve with plenty of hiding spaces and visual barriers.
How to Determine Sex
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Males: smaller, slimmer, and develop visible toe pads; call frequently with a loud trill.
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Females: larger, rounder body, especially when carrying eggs.
How to Breed
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Provide horizontal surfaces (film canisters, petri dishes, leaves, or bromeliad axils) for egg laying.
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Males call to attract females, and pairs often choose secluded sites.
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Eggs hatch in about 10–14 days; tadpoles should be collected and raised separately in water.
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Tadpoles metamorphose into froglets after ~60–80 days, depending on conditions.
