[1][2][3] Populations from the Pacific versant, formerly included in this species,[4] are now identified as Phyllobates vittatus.

[5] The male frog finds a concealed perch, such as in a watery area surrounded by vegetation.

The male frog cares for the eggs, protecting them from dehydration via hydric brooding.

After the eggs hatch, the male frog carries the tadpoles on his back to streams, where they complete development.

Chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, has been detected in museum specimens but its impact on natural populations is unknown.