Antennariidae

The family Antennariidae, are a family of bony fish found in shallow, tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They are known for their unique appearance, which includes a round, stocky body and a large, gaping mouth. They are also known as frogfish.

The family includes about 15 genera and 50 species.

Here are some key characteristics and facts about frogfish:

• Appearance: Frogfish come in a variety of colors and patterns, and their skin can be covered with spines, bumps, and filaments that make them blend in with their surroundings. They usually grow to about 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 cm) in length, but some varieties can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length.
• Habitat: Frogfish are usually found in shallow waters near coral reefs, rocks or sandy bottoms. They are generally solitary and can be difficult to spot due to their camouflage.
• Diet: Frogfish are carnivorous and feed mainly on small fish, crustaceans and other invertebrates. They have a unique hunting technique in which they lure prey in with a fleshy bait on their head, which resembles a worm or shrimp.
• Reproduction: Frogfish lay their eggs in open water. The newly hatched larvae become part of the zooplankton before they descend to the bottom.
• Behaviour: Frogfish are relatively slow and spend most of their time on the bottom. They are known to change their color and texture to match their environment, enabling them to evade predators and stalk prey.
• Threats: Some species of frogfish are threatened by habitat destruction, overfishing and pollution. However, many species are not currently considered endangered.

Overall, frogfish are fascinating and unique creatures that are popular with underwater photographers and divers. Their unusual appearance and behavior make them a popular subject for observation and study. Their diet makes them less suitable for the aquarium.