Stands as one of the most deadly and visually striking members of the poison dart frog family. Endemic to a small region in Colombia, this amphibian boasts a vibrant golden-yellow hue that warns potential predators of its potent venom. It is also considered one of the largest species among the poison dart frogs.

What sets this species apart is the potency of its venom. A single Golden poison frog can possess enough toxin to kill up to ten adult humans, making it one of the most lethal creatures on the planet. Even minimal contact with its skin can result in severe harm, underscoring the importance of avoiding direct interaction with these frogs in the wild.

Despite their formidable defenses, Golden poison frogs face significant threats from human activities. Habitat loss due to logging, gold mining, and agricultural development, including deforestation for crop planting, poses a grave risk to their survival. The restricted range of the species exacerbates this threat, making it particularly vulnerable to habitat degradation and fragmentation.

Conservation efforts are urgently needed to safeguard the Golden poison frog and its habitat. Local and international initiatives focused on preserving Colombia’s remaining rainforests are crucial for the long-term survival of this species.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Colombia

EN

2016