The giant frogfish grows to around 45 cm and inhabits rocky reefs and rubble areas across Indo-Pacific waters, typically between 5 and 40 metres. Its stocky, toad-like body is covered in wart-like projections and comes in shades of yellow, brown, or red. The defining feature is a modified dorsal fin ray that forms a fishing rod complete with a lure (esca), which it waves to attract small fish and crustaceans within striking distance. Despite its small mouth, a giant frogfish can swallow prey almost as large as itself by rapidly expanding its jaws.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Teleostei
- Order
- Lophiiformes
- Family
- Antennariidae
- Genus
- Antennarius
Most likely to be seen at
Sites where its range and habitat make it likely — not yet confirmed by a logged sighting.