Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've noticed that when my Leucomelas go into "feeding mode" they're always tapping their toes. What function does this serve? Can anybody refer me to any information on this?

I dunno, but its cool. Mine do the same thing.

I've asked this question myself in the past and there have been several discussions on this and other frog boards. From what I recall, it may be a way of enticing the insects to move, excitment, or I had a theory that it may be a way of communication with other frogs regarding the presence of prey. No one ever seemed to have an answer based on experiements. At any rate, all the dart species I raise do it, even the thumbnails. It seems to be definitely related to hunting and sighting prey, however.

My theory about it being a possible means of communicating the presence of prey was based on a single incident where one of my galacs inadvertently captured a tiny fish fry, tapping away like mad. Within a minute, the rest of the frogs that were on the opposite side of the tank joined this frog by the water's edge, like a bunch of fishermen, looking into the water. (They will often capture flies that have fallen in the water from the bank.) This single observation proves nothing, however. It did happen outside of the normal feeding time, when they also converge, but have lots of other clues that food is on hand. In this instance, there were no other clues, such as opening the lid and tapping in flies. It would make a good "study" project.
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Patty
Pahsimeroi, Idaho

4 D. auratus blue
5 D. galactonotus pumpkin orange splash back
5 D. imitator
6 D. leucomelas
4 D. pumilio Bastimentos
4 D. fantasticus
4 P. terribilis
4 D. reticulatus
4 D. castaneoticus

That is really neat, and it would be an interesting experiment. Hmmmm....