Antennarius sp.
| Identification | Squat, globular body with skin flaps and a "fishing lure" (illicium) on the forehead used to attract prey. Sold in an "assorted" range of colors — yellow, orange, red, black, and mottled. Common types include Warty/Clown, Painted, and Hairy Frogfish. |
| Maximum Length | 3–12 inches (species dependent) |
| Origin | Tropical and subtropical seas worldwide; Indo-Pacific and Atlantic |
| Minimum Tank Size | 30 gallons |
| Reef Compatibility | Yes with corals — but will eat any fish or shrimp it can swallow |
Behavior
Frogfish are among the most bizarre and captivating ambush predators in the aquarium hobby. Master of camouflage, a frogfish sits motionless disguised as a sponge, rock, or clump of algae, “walking” slowly across the bottom on modified pectoral fins that act like feet. It hunts using a built-in lure — a modified dorsal spine (the illicium) tipped with a fleshy bait (the esca) that it wiggles to draw prey within range. When a target comes close, the frogfish engulfs it in one of the fastest strikes in the animal kingdom — as little as six milliseconds. It is a sedentary, patient fish that spends most of its time perched in one spot, making it a fascinating oddball centerpiece for a species tank.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivore. A voracious ambush predator that eats fish and crustaceans, often taking prey nearly its own size. In captivity most frogfish begin on live saltwater feeder shrimp or fish; many can be trained onto frozen silversides, krill, or shrimp offered on a feeding stick. Feed 2-3 times per week — frogfish can gorge and easily be overfed.
Cautions
Will eat any tank mate small enough to swallow, including fish nearly its own length — never house with small fish or ornamental shrimp. Best kept alone or with fish far too large to be eaten. A slow, sit-and-wait feeder that cannot compete with fast, active fish for food. Some species have mildly venomous spines — handle with care. Sensitive to water quality; the heavy feeding of meaty foods requires good filtration and regular maintenance. Keep a secure lid, and never house two frogfish together unless the tank is large and they are similarly sized.