Antennarius

Antennarius is a genus of frogfishes in the family Antennariidae. Members are marine ray-finned fishes known for their globose, often mottled bodies and their specialized predatory strategy. Each species bears a modified dorsal spine called an illicium with a fleshy lure, the esca, used to attract prey. They are ambush predators that rely on camouflage to blend with surrounding sponge, coral, or rock. The pectoral and pelvic fins are modified to form a leg-like base that enables the fish to “walk” along the substrate.

Antennarius species inhabit shallow tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, with a high diversity in the Indo-Pacific. They are commonly found on coral reefs, rubble, rocky bottoms, or seagrass beds, often well camouflaged against their surroundings. They range in size from relatively small to mid-sized by frogfish standards and can vary in color and pattern to match local backgrounds.

They feed on small fishes and crustaceans, capturing prey with a sudden ambush by suction as they inflate their mouths. Their mouths can expand rapidly to engulf prey larger than the head. They have rough skin with dermal flaps that aid camouflage and can change coloration to blend with their environment.

Most species reproduce by releasing buoyant eggs in gelatinous masses that drift in the water column; larvae are planktonic. Notable species include Antennarius maculatus (spotted or clown frogfish), Antennarius radiatus (painted frogfish), Antennarius commerson (Commerson’s frogfish), and Antennarius ocellatus (ocellated frogfish). The genus is represented in the aquarium trade, though frogfishes require careful husbandry and appropriate tank conditions.