Dendrobates leucomelas

Yellow-banded Poison Dart Frogs are diurnal and highly active during the day, spending their time foraging for small insects such as ants and termites, which contribute to the toxins they secrete through their skin. They are territorial and communicate through a series of calls to establish dominance and attract mates.

These frogs breed during the rainy season, with males calling to attract females to their territory. The female lays her eggs on the forest floor, which the male fertilizes and then guards. After the eggs hatch, one of the parents, typically the male, transports the tadpoles to water-filled bromeliads by carrying them on their back.

Yellow-banded Poison Dart Frogs typically measure around 1.2 to 1.5 inches (3 to 4 cm) in length. They have smooth skin and a plump body shape, with long legs suited for their arboreal lifestyle. The frogs' vibrant color pattern not only deters predators but also makes them one of the more visually striking species within their habitat.

Native to the northern part of South America, including parts of Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana, Yellow-banded Poison Dart Frogs thrive in warm, humid environments such as tropical rainforests where their bright coloration blends with the vibrant undergrowth.

The Yellow-banded Poison Dart Frog is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, they face threats from habitat destruction and the illegal pet trade. Conservation measures are necessary to ensure sustainable populations, including habitat preservation and regulation of trade practices.