Striate Anglerfish
Antennarius striatus
Striate Anglerfish (Antennarius striatus) is a small, highly camouflaged frogfish found on tropical to subtropical reefs and soft bottoms. It is an ambush predator with a lure-like first dorsal spine and is rarely targeted by anglers.
Identification points
- Short, rounded body with rough, warty skin that often matches surrounding cover
- Long, slender first dorsal spine ending in a fishing-lure-like esca
- Irregular pale stripes or bars on a dark body, often with large pectoral fins used like limbs
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical coastal reefs, rubble, algae-covered rocks, seagrass edges, and soft-bottom habitats with sponges or other cover, usually resting on the bottom at shallow to moderate depths.
Bait notes
Not a typical game fish and usually not targeted. If encountered by handline or light tackle, small live shrimp, tiny baitfish, or soft plastics can provoke a strike, but catch-and-release is best.
Behavior
A sedentary ambush predator that sits motionless and strikes prey by rapidly expanding its mouth. It uses the illicium and esca as a lure, relying on camouflage rather than pursuit.
Caution
No major human consumption concern is generally noted, but it is a small, non-game reef fish and can be difficult to identify among frogfish relatives; avoid handling if the dorsal spines or gill area could be damaged.
Fishing notes
Best found while slowly working reefs, rubble, or weed edges rather than actively sought. If fishing around frogfish habitat, use very light presentations and watch for a sudden inhale; handle carefully and release promptly.