Reptile & Amphibian Forums

When dendrobate tadpoles emerge from the egg, would the tadpoles (theoretically) have the ability to eat eachother? I was debating this with someone and I'd just like to see if they would have the ability.
-Sean

This depends upon the species. The thumbnails and Pumilios that feed their tads with eggs are cannibalistic as tads. Those that graze algae usually aren't. A nice affordable reference is POISON FROGS, Professional Breeders Series, Schmidt and Henkle available from the following link:
zoobooksales

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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
2 D. azureus
4 P vittatus

We were debating if auratus tadpoles would be able to harm or kill eachother after emerging from the egg. I've been told to raise them individually or together with lots of cover. Theoretically, could auratus tadpoles kill its clutch-mates after emerging from the egg?
-Sean

"Poison Frogs" pg 82 (auratus) states that "due to their pronounced cannibalistic discpoition the larvae have to be raised one by one in small containers."
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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
2 D. azureus
4 P vittatus

Exactly what I was looking for, thanks.
-Sean

hmmm, like hinted at before, YES dart tadpoles often eat each other. Some do it every chance they get and some do it when food runs low. Any way you look at it dendrobate tadpoles can and will eat each other.

Sean,

You are actually correct that auratus tadpoles can either be housed seperately or communally if enough food and cover is provided. The key is to provide enough food and cover. If you don't they will eat each other.

Brad