Frogfish (Antennariidae) is a part of the anglerfish family (Lophiiformes) and you can find a big variety of 45 different spices. They are found around the coast of Africa, Asia, Australia and North America. Normal habitats are at reefs all the way down to the depth of 100 meters. Even though the increasing habitat destruction and pollution, wild population of frogfish are still large and healthy. The shape, colours and abilities that frogfishes has fascinated since I saw it for the first time.
Frogfish hiding at Quo Vadis Dive Resort Housereeef
Crazy facts about frogfish
- The frogfish has a modified dorsal fin that looks like a worm or a shrimp that they use for hunting.
- When the fish is close enough the frogfish opens the mouth so fast that it creates a suction and the poor little fish is drawn into the teeth lees mouth in one bite. This is the fastest suction among fishes.
- They can swallow preys that is 2 times bigger than the fish itself thanks to the ability to expand their mouth 12 times of its normal size.
- The frogfish doesn’t have a swim bladder. Therefore the frog feet’s are mostly just for walking around when they move.
- The colour of the body depends on the habitat. Frogfishes can be any colours and in very weird colours combinations. It’s able to quickly change colour to blend into the environment.
- They do have a social life with each other. Then the smaller frogfishes risking to become lunch for the bigger ones.
- In wild the frogfish can reach an age of 20 years.
The frogfish is one of the reasons divers from all over the world they come to Philippines. At Quo Vadis Dive Resort we can find this little critters at most of our dive sites. They camouflage themselves really good trough choosing spots that is similar as them self. Our dive guides will do everything they can to find this special spots where this ugly & amazing creature hides.
Frogfish at the Sardine Run
Giant Frogfish at Pescadoor island