Antennarius Maculatus (The Warty Frogfish)

Overview

• Found in the Indo-Pacific, often residing in coral reefs, lagoons, and coastal rocky environments.
• Characterized by its irregularly textured skin covered in wart-like protuberances, aiding in camouflage.
• Utilizes its modified dorsal fin as a lure to attract unsuspecting prey before striking with lightning speed.
• A unique species admired by aquarists for its deceptive appearance and ambush hunting techniques.

Feeding

• Carnivorous diet consisting primarily of small fish, shrimp, and crustaceans.
• Prefers live food but can be trained to accept frozen offerings such as silversides, squid, and krill.
• Has a slow metabolism and requires careful monitoring to prevent overfeeding.
• Best fed in controlled portions to avoid digestive issues and unnecessary weight gain.

Habitat

• Commonly found camouflaged within coral rubble, sponge beds, or rocky reef crevices.
• Prefers calm waters with minimal water movement to support its sedentary hunting style.
• Aquarium setups should feature live rock formations, shaded hideaways, and a sandy substrate for a natural feel.
• Thrives in tanks that allow it to remain concealed while waiting for prey.

Fish Care

• Maintains best health at water temperatures between 74-80°F (23-27°C).
• Requires a pH balance between 8.1-8.4 with a salinity range of 1.020-1.025.
• Highly sensitive to poor water conditions, necessitating strong filtration and regular monitoring.
• Ammonia and nitrate levels should be kept as low as possible to prevent stress-related illness.
• A quiet, low-disturbance environment enhances its natural coloration and hunting efficiency.

Compatibility

• Best suited for species-only tanks or with other slow-moving, similarly sized fish.
• Any tank mates small enough to fit in its mouth will be treated as prey.
• Not ideal for mixed reef aquariums containing delicate fish or crustaceans.
• Can coexist with other frogfish in a spacious, structured tank, but cannibalistic tendencies may arise.

Aquarium Behavior

• Primarily motionless, remaining camouflaged for extended periods while waiting for prey.
• Employs its dorsal lure to mimic small prey and attract unsuspecting fish within striking range.
• Capable of an explosive, vacuum-like bite that allows it to swallow prey whole in an instant.
• Providing ample rock structures and shaded areas encourages its natural hunting and hiding behaviors.