Overview
Atelopus, commonly known as Harlequin Frogs, are some of the most colorful and unique amphibians from Central and South America. Many species face serious threats in the wild, so captive care can help reduce wild collection pressure and support conservation.
They aren’t beginner frogs. They require very specific care — high humidity, stable temperatures, and clean environments — but if you can maintain those, they make fascinating pets with their bright colors and interesting behaviors.
Housing & Environment
Tank Size: At least 10 to 15 gallons for a pair or small group. More space is better if you can provide it.
Terrarium Setup: Glass terrariums with good ventilation work best. A bioactive setup that mimics the rainforest floor, with leaf litter, moss, and live plants, is ideal.
Substrate: Use moisture-retentive but well-draining mixes like ABG soil mix combined with sphagnum moss and leaf litter to maintain humidity and keep the substrate healthy.
Decor: Plenty of hides such as cork bark or hollow logs are essential since these frogs like to feel secure. Adding climbing branches and plants helps them feel natural and reduces stress.
Water: A shallow dish with dechlorinated water should always be available. Replace water regularly to keep it clean and free of bacteria.
Temperature & Humidity
Keep daytime temps between 70-78°F (21-26°C), with nighttime drops no lower than 65°F (18°C).
Humidity should stay high — between 75-90%. Use daily misting or automated misting systems to maintain stable moisture levels.
Lighting
Avoid intense UVB lights, as Atelopus are mostly terrestrial and low-light. Use low-level LED lighting to simulate natural day-night cycles.
Diet & Feeding
Feed a varied diet of small insects like fruit flies, pinhead crickets, springtails, and roaches. Variety helps keep their nutrition balanced.
Always gut-load feeder insects with nutritious foods and lightly dust them with calcium and vitamin supplements before feeding.
Juveniles eat daily, while adults may feed every 3-4 days.
Be patient with shy eaters; some Atelopus need time to adjust to captive feeding.
Behavior & Social
These frogs are naturally shy and secretive, often spending time hiding under leaves or bark.
They do best in small groups or pairs to minimize stress and aggression.
Provide plenty of hiding places and visual barriers to reduce stress.
Health & Care
Keep the enclosure clean with good airflow to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Regularly change water and clean dishes.
Quarantine new frogs before adding to your setup to avoid disease spread.
Monitor skin condition and behavior — lethargy, discoloration, or lack of appetite may indicate health issues.
Maintaining stable humidity is critical to avoid skin problems.
Conservation
Due to their endangered status, avoid wild-caught specimens and support conservation programs and captive breeding efforts.
Hunters Picks — What I Use & Recommend
Here are some reliable products I’ve tested or researched that work well for Atelopus setups:
ABG Mix Substrate: Keeps humidity balanced and mimics natural forest floor. Buy on Amazon
Premium Sphagnum Moss: Helps retain moisture and promotes healthy skin. Buy on Amazon
Leaf Litter: Natural hiding spots and microfauna habitat. Buy on Amazon
Large Hide (Cork Bark or similar): Essential for their shy nature. Buy on Amazon
Reptizoo Digital Thermometer & Hygrometer: Reliable for monitoring temp and humidity. Buy on Amazon
Exo Terra Spray Bottle (2 qt): Great for daily misting. Buy on Amazon
