Hairy Frogfish

The hairy frogfish is a small, cryptic ambush predator found on reefs and rubble areas, typically between 5 and 40 metres depth. Its body is covered in hair-like appendages that provide excellent camouflage against seaweed and coral rubble, making it a patient hunter of small fish and crustaceans. Like other frogfish, it uses a modified dorsal spine as a lure to draw prey within striking distance, then engulfs victims in a lightning-fast gulp. Expect to find this species in Indo-Pacific waters, where its sedentary nature and mottled colouration make it easy to overlook.