Golden Mantella
Mantella aurantiaca
Overview
The golden mantella is a small, terrestrial frog endemic to Madagascar. It is famous for its uniform, bright yellow-orange color.
Fun Fact
Despite their small size (2-3 cm), they are highly toxic. They evolved independently to look and act like poison dart frogs (convergent evolution).
Physical Characteristics
Bright orange or yellow skin. Black eyes.
Behavior & Ecology
Diurnal and very social, living in colonies.
Diet & Hunting Strategy
Eats tiny insects like termites and fruit flies.
Reproduction & Life Cycle
Females lay eggs on damp ground; rain washes the tadpoles into nearby pools.
Human Interaction
A target for the illegal pet trade, which has severely impacted wild populations.
FAQ
What is the scientific name of the Golden Mantella?
The scientific name of the Golden Mantella is Mantella aurantiaca.
Where does the Golden Mantella live?
High-altitude rainforest swamps in a tiny area of Madagascar.
What does the Golden Mantella eat?
Carnivore (Insectivore). Eats tiny insects like termites and fruit flies.
How long does the Golden Mantella live?
The lifespan of the Golden Mantella is approximately 8 years..
