Fin's Fish Guide
The Painted frogfish (Antennarius pictus) is a saltwater fish of the family Antennariidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, on coral and rocky reefs of shallow coastal water, often among sponges.
Description
The painted frogfish is a rounded, lumpy predator of the family Antennariidae reaching about 30 cm. The first dorsal spine is modified into a 'rod' (illicium) with a lure on the snout, with which the fish draws prey right in front of its enormous mouth; it uses its limb-like pectoral fins to 'walk' over the bottom. The skin is warty and the colour highly variable — brown, orange, black or yellow with blotches — so the fish resembles a sponge or coral lump. The species lives on coral and rocky reefs of the tropical Indo-Pacific. It lies motionless in ambush and sucks in any fish or shrimp that comes too close in a flash.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Painted frogfish?
The Painted frogfish has an irregular in shape body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a spots pattern. Rounded, knobbly anglerfish with a lure (rod) on the snout and leg-like pectoral fins; changes colour to resemble a sponge.
Where does the Painted frogfish live?
The Painted frogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, on coral and rocky reefs of shallow coastal water, often among sponges.
How big does the Painted frogfish get?
The Painted frogfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Painted frogfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Painted frogfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Painted frogfish edible?
The Painted frogfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Antennarius
More from the family Antennariidae
Want the complete picture on the Painted frogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Painted frogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.