Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Poison Dart Frogs

There are approximately 150 species of amphibians living in Costa Rica. Several of these species include some of the most brightly colored frogs found in the rainforest. This fascinating group of frogs belong to the family Dendronbatidae. In Costa Rica there are 7 species, 3 of which boldly display the bright and contrasting colors that are a family trademark. The common name of Poison Arrow Frog or Poison Dart Frog originated from the Choco Indians of Colombia. The Choco knew that the frogs emitted a toxin from their skin. The Choco would rub the tips of their arrows across a frog's body to make the arrow head poisonous.  Below is a small sample of some of these Poisonous frogs and others.

Green & Black Poison Dart Frog © John N Murphy
Strawberry Poison Dart Frog © John N Murphy

Red-eyed Tree Frog © John N Murphy
Red-eyed Tree Frog © John N Murphy

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