Mantella bernhardi is less colorful than other species. The dorsum is dark brown to black, fading to gray near the head. The upper parts of the limbs are yellow, while the lower half is brown. They are one the smallest species of Mantella, with the largest individuals reaching only 22 mm (0.9 inches). The most distantly related member of the genus, M. bernhardi also has a unique trill-like call, which is very different from the usual clicks and chirps of other species.

They have a very limited range in the lowland rainforests of south-east Madagascar. Only a handful of populations are known, one of which lies within the borders of Ranomafana National Park. This population lives around temporary pools of stagnant water created by seasonal rainstorms. Habitat destruction is a large threat to unprotected populations.

Until recent years, M. bernhardi appeared sporadically in the pet trade. They are no longer exported from Madagascar due to their endangered status. Because of their drab appearance, attention was rarely paid to this species when it was available, and few frogs remain in the care of hobbyists. They have been bred successfully in captivity, but because of the small number of remaining captive frogs, few to none are ever available. Anyone working with M. bernhardi should make a strong effort to breed their animals or get them into the hands of someone who already is so that this species is available in the future.

Mantella bernhardi Photo Gallery

Mantella bernhardi Habitat

Please submit additional photographs to devin@amphibiancare.com

References

IUCN, Conservation International, and NatureServe. 2006. Global Amphibian Assessment. . 3 March 2007.

Vences, M., F. Glaw & W. Böhme (1999): A review of the genus Mantella (Anura, Ranidae, Mantellinae): taxonomy, distribution and conservation of Malagasy poison frogs. – Alytes 17 (1-2): 3-72.