Antennarius
Antennarius is a genus of anglerfish in the family Antennariidae. These fish are commonly known as frogfishes, due to their frog-like appearance and their ability to hop along the seafloor. They are characterized by their distinctive lures, which they use to attract prey. These lures are modified dorsal fin spines that are tipped with fleshy appendages, often resembling worms or small fish. Frogfishes are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly with their surroundings using specialized skin cells called chromatophores that allow them to change color and pattern.
Common Names
The members of the genus Antennarius are commonly known as frogfishes, but they also have a variety of other names depending on the species and location, including:
- Anglerfish
- Luring fish
- Fishing frog
- Handfish
Characteristics
Frogfishes are characterized by their squat, often bulbous bodies, with large heads and mouths. Their eyes are typically positioned high on their heads, providing excellent vision for spotting prey. Their bodies are covered in fleshy, spiky skin, and they lack scales. This distinctive skin is a key part of their camouflage, allowing them to blend in with their surroundings. They are typically small in size, with most species reaching lengths between 5 and 30 cm. One of the most fascinating aspects of Antennarius is their "lure" - a modified first dorsal spine that resembles a small fish or worm. This lure is often brightly colored and used to attract prey.
Environment
Frogfishes are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They are typically found on the seafloor, among coral reefs, rocks, and seagrass beds. These fish are ambush predators, preferring to lie in wait for their prey. They are typically solitary fish but may sometimes be seen in small groups. They primarily feed on smaller fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates.
References
Here are some reliable sources for more information on Antennarius:
- Froese, Rainer, and Pauly, Daniel, eds. (2023). "Antennarius" in FishBase. Accessed through: https://www.fishbase.se/summary/Antennarius.html
- FishBase. 2023. "Antennariidae". World Register of Marine Species. Accessed through: https://www.marinespecies.org/aphia.php?p=taxdetails&id=125250
- National Geographic. 2023. "Frogfish". Accessed through: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/f/frogfish/