Other Names (How it Got Its Names) Common names: Mint Terribilis, Golden Poison Dart Frog (Mint morph). Phyllobates = “leaf climber,” terribilis = “terrible” — named for its potency in the wild as the most toxic dart frog known. “Mint” refers to the pale green to mint-colored morph, distinct from the standard golden-yellow terribilis. Characteristics Large, robust dart frog species. Bold and confident in captivity — often visible and active. Despite their reputation in the wild, captive-bred terribilis are non-toxic (toxicity comes from a wild diet of toxic ants/mites). Recommended Vivarium Size Minimum: 18” x 18” x 18” for a pair. Larger enclosures (24” x 18” x 18” or bigger) are recommended for groups, as they are quite large and active. Provide open floor space, leaf litter, cork bark, and dense plants for cover. Temperature Daytime: 72–78°F (22–25°C). Nighttime: 68–72°F (20–22°C). Avoid temps above 80°F. Humidity 70–90%, with daily misting. Maintain moist microhabitats but with ventilation to prevent stagnant air. Size of Frog Adults: 2–2.5 inches (5–6.5 cm), among the largest dart frogs. Life Span 10–15 years in captivity with proper care. Feeding Diet: fruit flies (D. melanogaster and D. hydei), pinhead crickets, small roaches, isopods, and springtails. Feed daily; dust prey with calcium and vitamins 2–3 times weekly. Color/Pattern The Mint morph is pale mint-green to turquoise, sometimes with subtle darker marbling. Lacks the bright golden-orange coloration of the standard terribilis morph. Color intensity can vary slightly between individuals. Social Behavior One of the more social dart frog species. Can often be housed in groups if provided with adequate space and resources. Less aggressive than many Dendrobates tinctorius morphs. How to Determine Sex Males: smaller, slimmer, and produce a soft buzzing call. Females: larger, rounder-bodied when gravid. Sexing juveniles is difficult until maturity. How to Breed Provide petri dishes, film canisters, or leaf litter as egg-laying sites. Males call to attract females; eggs are laid in moist, concealed spots. Eggs hatch in 10–14 days; tadpoles can be raised in aquatic setups. Metamorphosis occurs in ~2–3 months depending on diet and conditions. 🌟 Phyllobates terribilis “Mint” is prized as a large, bold, and stunning morph of the most legendary dart frog species — making it both a display showpiece and a collector’s favorite.
