Inventory of color polymorphism in populations of Dendrobates galactonotus (Anura: Dendrobatidae), a poison frog endemic to Brazil

Abstract

We studied the various color morphsof Dendrobates galactonotus that occur in its range between the Amazon and Tapajósrivers, in the Brazilian states of Pará, Maranhão, northern Mato Grosso, and northernTocantins. Dorsal coloration ranges from black to light blue and from red via orange toyellow, cream and white, with or without black spots or vermiculations. Most specimensare uniformly black below, but in some populations the color of the back has invaded theventral surface and the black has been reduced to small areas on the seat patch and underthe thighs. We could not locate any completely white populations, a color variant presentin captivity and known as “Moonshine.” No regularity in the distribution of color patterncould be distinguished; the majority of localities has orange colored populations, but othercolor morphs are sprinkled between them. Populations are uniform, only showing onecolor, although the amount of black elements on the back may vary. Threats to this speciesare deforestation, fragmentation of habitat, hydroelectric projects (already functioning,under construction, or projected), gold mining, and possibly illegal international trade.Although this species is widely distributed in terrariums in Europe, the United States, andJapan, all these specimens stem from illegal exports. Genetic research to try to establish aconnection between color pattern and genetic make-up of populations is in progress.