Painted Frogfish
Antennarius pictus
Painted Frogfish is a camouflaged ambush predator of Indo-Pacific coral and rocky reefs, where it mimics sponges or algae and waits motionless for prey. It is a rare bycatch for anglers and is better admired than targeted.
Identification points
- Body is round, squat, and sponge-like rather than streamlined
- Huge upturned mouth with a short snout and small eyes
- A single lure-like first dorsal spine ('illicium') projects from the head
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs, rocky reefs, rubble slopes, and sponge-covered areas, usually resting on the bottom or perched on structure from very shallow water to moderate depths.
Bait notes
Not a regular gamefish and not usually targeted. Small live shrimp, minnows, or crab pieces may take it accidentally, but most captures are incidental while reef fishing.
Behavior
A sedentary lure-fishing ambush predator that uses its modified first dorsal spine as a bait to draw in small fishes and crustaceans, then strikes extremely fast with a huge expandable mouth.
Caution
Spines are not highly dangerous like a lionfish, but the skin is often rough and the fish should be handled gently to avoid stress or abrasion. Avoid keeping for food; many frogfish are small and poor eating.
Fishing notes
If encountered, handle carefully and release quickly; it is best found by sight on reefs rather than fished for intentionally. Slow, close-quarters presentation around reef structure is most likely to contact one.