Anglers

19 species

Anglers, also known as frogfish, are fascinating and unique additions to a saltwater aquarium. These fish are part of the family Antennariidae and are known for their incredible camouflage and hunting techniques. Anglers have a distinctive appearance with a large, upward-facing mouth and a lure (known as an esca) that they use to attract prey. This lure can mimic various marine organisms, making it an effective tool for ambushing unsuspecting fish and invertebrates.

One of the most interesting aspects of anglers is their ability to change color and texture to blend seamlessly with their surroundings. This adaptive camouflage allows them to hide from predators and sneak up on prey. However, this also means that they require an environment with plenty of live rock and hiding spots to feel secure and exhibit natural behaviors.

When keeping anglers in an aquarium, it's important to note that they are solitary and can be quite aggressive towards other fish, especially smaller ones that they might see as food. They have a relatively slow metabolism and do not require frequent feeding; however, they do need a diet of live or frozen meaty foods such as shrimp, small fish, and other marine invertebrates.

Anglers are best suited for experienced aquarists due to their specific care requirements and predatory nature. Regular water changes and a well-maintained filtration system are essential to keep them healthy.

Overall, anglers are a captivating choice for a dedicated aquarist looking to add a unique and predatory fish to their collection. Their remarkable hunting skills and ability to blend into their environment make them a standout species in any saltwater aquarium.

  1. Giant Frogfish (Antennarius commerson), Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia
    Common name: Giant Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennarius commerson
  2. Shaggy Frogfish (Antennarius hispidus), Lembeh srait, Indonesia
    Common name: Shaggy Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennarius hispidus
  3. Warty Frogfish or Clown Frogfish (Antennarius maculatus)
    Common name: Warty Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennarius maculatus
  4. Longlure Frogfish (Antennarius multiocellatus)
    Common name: Longlure Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennarius multiocellatus
  5. Dwarf Frogfish (Antennarius pauciradiatus), Blue Heron Bridge, FL, USA
    Common name: Dwarf Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennarius pauciradiatus
  6. Painted Frogfish (Antennarius pictus)
    Common name: Painted Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennarius pictus
  7. Randall's Frogfish (Antennarius randalli). Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia
    Common name: Randall's Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennarius randalli
  8. Striated Frogfish (Antennarius striatus)
    Common name: Striated Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennarius striatus
  9. Scarlet Frogfish (Antennatus coccineus)
    Common name: Scarlet Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennatus coccineus
  10. Common name: Side-jet Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennatus duescus
  11. Spotfin Frogfish (Antennatus nummifer)
    Common name: Spotfin Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennatus nummifer
  12. Common name: Rosy Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennatus rosaceus
  13. Tuberculated Frogfish (Antennatus tuberosus), Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands
    Common name: Tuberculated Frogfish
    Scientific name: Antennatus tuberosus
  14. Pancake Batfish (Halieutichthys aculeatus), Gulf of Mexico
    Common name: Pancake Batfish
    Scientific name: Halieutichthys aculeatus
  15. A rare Sargassum Frogfish (Histrio histrio). Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia
    Common name: Sargassum Frogfish
    Scientific name: Histrio histrio
  16. Three-spot Frogfish (Lophiocharon trisignatus), Exmouth, WA, Australia
    Common name: Three-spot Frogfish
    Scientific name: Lophiocharon trisignatus
  17. Red-lipped Batfish (Ogcocephalus darwini), Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
    Common name: Red-lipped Batfish
    Scientific name: Ogcocephalus darwini
  18. Common name: Shortnose Batfish
    Scientific name: Ogcocephalus nasutus
  19. Leaf Scorpionfish (Taenianotus triacanthus), Maldives
    Common name: Leaf Scorpionfish
    Scientific name: Taenianotus triacanthus