Mantella madagascariensis is a very attractive species. A green or yellowish rostral stripe runs along the top of the head. This usually meets with a green blotch where the forelimbs meet the body. Additional green blotches are present at the insertion of the hind limbs, which themselves are marbled or striped in orange, brown, and/or black. Their dorsum is usually black, although there is at least one population that has a yellowish green pattern present on it. This color morph with a patterned dorsum has often been referred to as “M. loppei” in literature, a species name that is now considered erroneous. M. madagascariensis is easily confused with M. baroni, and certain populations of M. pulchra. See Correctly Identifying Mantella baroni and Mantella madagascariensis for more information.
M. madagascariensis has a limited range in east-central Madagascar. A population exists sympatrically with M. baroni in the southern part of their range, within Ranomafana National Park.
In the North American pet trade, wild-caught M. madagascariensis are often available during particular times of the year, usually during the winter months which coincide with the warm rainy season in Madagascar. They are often incorrectly labeled as M. baroni, or are simply called “painted mantellas” by dealers, which can make obtaining properly identified frogs difficult. Reproduction in captivity occasionally occurs, but captive-bred frogs are not consistently available.
M. madagascariensis is a very enjoyable species to keep in captivity. The males are particularly fun to watch, as they are especially bold and will call for hours on end after a heavy misting. Females are much more timid, and are not often observed unless they’re on the hunt for food. Cool conditions are required in order for M. madagascariensis to do well in captivity, with a range from 19°C to 25°C (66°F to 77°F) working well. During a simulated dry season, the temperature can fall as low as 15°C (59°F) without problems.
Mantella madagascariensis Photo Gallery
Mantella madagascariensis Habitat
Submit additional photographs to devin@amphibiancare.com
References
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.
