Other Names (How it Got Its Names) Common names: Patricia Dart Frog, Tinctorius Patricia. Tinctorius means “dyer’s frog,” from early use of skins in indigenous dyeing practices. The “Patricia” morph is a selectively bred color variety named by early dart frog breeders/keepers, prized for its unique yellow, black, and blue patterning. Characteristics Medium-to-large dart frog with bold coloration. Hardy and adaptable, making it a good choice for both new and experienced keepers. More terrestrial than some dart frogs, often seen hopping across the forest floor or leaf litter. Recommended Vivarium Size Minimum: 18” x 18” x 18” for a pair. Larger enclosures (24” x 18” x 18” or more) are recommended for trios or groups. Provide leaf litter, cork bark, live plants, and horizontal surfaces for egg deposition. Temperature Daytime: 72–78°F (22–25°C). Nighttime: 68–72°F (20–22°C). Avoid sustained exposure above 80°F. Humidity 70–90%, with daily misting. Needs moist microhabitats and shaded hides but also ventilation to prevent stagnant air. Size of Frog Adults reach 1.5–2 inches (3.8–5 cm). Life Span 10–15 years in captivity with proper care. Feeding Primary diet: fruit flies (D. melanogaster and D. hydei). Supplements: springtails, isopods, pinhead crickets. Feed daily; dust feeders with calcium and multivitamins several times per week. Color/Pattern Black body base with bold yellow patches across the back and head. Limbs often show rich blue coloration with black spotting. Pattern is variable between individuals, but the signature Patricia look is the yellow “cape” or blotching contrasted with blue legs. Social Behavior Can be kept in pairs or groups if enclosure is large and well-structured. Males may show territorial behavior, especially in breeding setups. Generally bold and visible compared to some other dart frogs. How to Determine Sex Males: slightly smaller, slimmer, with more pronounced toe pads; produce soft buzzing calls. Females: larger, fuller-bodied, especially when gravid. How to Breed Provide moist laying sites like film canisters, petri dishes, or broad leaves. Males call to attract females, and eggs are laid in secluded moist areas. Eggs hatch in ~10–14 days; tadpoles can be collected and raised in aquatic setups. Tadpoles metamorphose into froglets in ~2–3 months. This morph is very popular with hobbyists because of its bright contrast (yellow + blue) and its hardiness, making it a great showcase species.
