Red-headed poison frog

The red-headed poison frog, fantastic poison frog, or crowned poison frog (Ranitomeya fantastica) is a species of frog in the family Dendrobatidae. It is endemic to Peru and found in the northern San Martín and Loreto Regions.

Appearance
The adult frog measures appriximately 20 mm in snout-vent length. The entire front of the body and head and front legs are bright yellow bordered in white. The entire hind portion of the body is black with gray reticulations.

Habitat
Its natural habitats are primary and older secondary growth wet forests. The species uses phytotelmata for breeding, which must be present in its habitat. This frog has been observed between 180 and 1200 meters above sea level. Some R. fantastica populations are heavily arboreal and some are not.

Reproduction
The female frog lays eggs on the undersides of leaves. The male frog moves the eggs, putting each one in a different place to prevent tadpole-on-tadpole cannibalism.

Threats
The IUCN classifies this frog as vulnerable to extinction. The species is threatened by collection for international pet trade as well as habitat loss associated with the cultivation of bananas and coffee.

The frog's range includes one protected park: Reserva Nacional Allpahuayo Mishana.