How do poison dart frogs get their poison?
Quick Answer
Many poison dart frogs do not make their own toxins; they get them from what they eat, especially certain ants, mites, and other tiny prey. In captivity, they often lose toxicity because their diet changes.
The Full Story
The bright colors of poison dart frogs are a warning to predators that they are toxic. In the wild, many species obtain their alkaloid toxins from their diet, rather than producing the chemicals themselves. Researchers have linked these toxins to insects and other small arthropods such as ants and mites. Famous species in South America, including members of the genus Phyllobates, are among the most toxic frogs known, with toxins strong enough to deter or kill predators.
Key Facts
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