The Painted Mantella, or Malagasy Mantella, is one of the most common Mantellas kept as pets. They are beautiful, interesting creatures that are an asset to anyone's vivarium

Found in the tropical region of Madagascar, the Malagasy Mantella prefers humid, warm environments. They are diurnal and insectivorous, meaning they are active during the day and only eat insects. In captivity, they feed primarily on crickets and other small insects. Mantellas are not very good swimmers, although they do enjoy soaking. They are territorial and males can be somewhat aggressive. Most Malagasy Mantellas have toxins in their skin to protect them from predators. They have very sensitive skin and should not be handled unless absolutely necessary. The Malagasy Mantella enjoys environments with lots of logs, rocks, branches, and plants, creating a dense, hidden place for the frog. Male Mantellas call throughout the day.

Malagasy Mantellas are quite small, with a maximum length of only 32 mm. They are beautifully colored and are usually black with yellow, orange, or green legs with black stripes. The head and snout usually has a yellow or green stripe running across the top of the eyes. Unlike other frogs, they do not have webbed feet.

Painted Mantellas live in the dense tropical forests on the western half of Madagascar. Because they live on the forest floor, they prefer humidity, but not very hot temperatures. They are one of the most common species of mantellas available to private collectors.

The Malagasy Mantella's terrarium should be as dense and secluded as possible. They should be kept in an aquarium of at least 10 gallons, larger for more mantellas. The temperature should be kept between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime, and drop down to about 70 degrees at night. The humidity should be around 80%. The terrarium should be exposed to full spectrum UV lights at least 12 hours per day. The Mantella should be provided with a shallow bowl for soaking and drinking. This Mantella is not a good swimmer so water dishes should not have more than two inches of water in them, because they can drown. Mantellas should be fed a variety of insects. Small crickets, fruit flies, ants, and termites are good choices.

Female Mantellas lay clutches ranging from 12 to 100 eggs. The eggs are laid in damp areas near water, but not in it.