Morphology
D. leucomelas is one of the largest species in the genus Dendrobates, with a snout to vent length of between 3.1 centimetres (1.2 in) and 5 centimetres (2.0 in). Average adult size, however, rarely exceeds 4 centimetres (1.6 in). Their average weight is reported as being around 3 grams (0.0066 lb). Females tend to be slightly larger than the males, but otherwise, there is little in their appearance to determine the sex of the species.
Like most poison dart frogs, D. leucomelas has evolved aposematic colouration as a warning to potential predators that they will make an unpalatable or toxic meal.
Predominantly, these frogs have a bright yellow colouration with varying amounts of broad black stripes and/or spots that extend over the whole body. Some morphs are orange in colour, and variations exist within the species (naturally occurring and not morphs solely within the exotic pet community) that dictate the extent of these markings ranging from fine spots to thick, unbroken banding.
They have glandular, adhesive pads on their toes (which aid in climbing and positioning) and, in common with other species in their order, they have a short, protrudable, unnotched, sticky tongue, which extends to catch prey.
Read more about this topic: Yellow-banded Poison Dart Frog
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