Fin's Fish Guide
The Frogfish (Histrio histrio) is a saltwater fish of the family Antennariidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Worldwide in warm seas, associated with floating Sargassum: western and eastern Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean.
Description
The sargassumfish is a small, bizarrely camouflaged frogfish of the family Antennariidae reaching about 20 cm. The stout, globose body is covered with numerous skin flaps and appendages that let the fish blend perfectly with drifting Sargassum weed, in which the species spends its whole life. With its leg-like pectoral and pelvic fins it 'walks' through the weed, and with a short lure above the mouth it attracts prey. The sargassumfish is a voracious, solitary hunter that takes fish and shrimp, sometimes larger than itself. It occurs worldwide in warm seas and is not eaten, partly because of possible ciguatera.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Frogfish?
The Frogfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a marbled pattern. Bizarrely camouflaged anglerfish among drifting Sargassum weed; uses skin flaps as camouflage, 'walks' on leg-like pectoral fins and lures prey with a short rod. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Frogfish live?
The Frogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Worldwide in warm seas, associated with floating Sargassum: western and eastern Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean.
How big does the Frogfish get?
The Frogfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Frogfish dangerous to humans?
The Frogfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Harmless to handle, but may cause ciguatera poisoning if eaten; seek medical help if symptoms such as nausea or tingling occur.
Is the Frogfish edible?
The Frogfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Antennariidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Frogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.