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Updated 8/14/2023

Family Antennariidae

Frogfishes

Frogfishes are also known as Anglerfishes since they wiggle a modified dorsal spine, or illicium, with a tiny flap of skin (esca) at its tip as a lure to attract prey.  Frogfish bodies resemble a flabby weed-encrusted rock or sponge and effectively blend into their surroundings, that is, if the color matches the area.  They are typically found upon rocky outcrops or man-made objects.  Most of the Hawaiian species are small and rarely seen.  Commerson's Frogfish is the most likely species divers will encounter.

 

CIRCUMTROPICAL


 

Histrio histrio

SARGASSUMFISH

 


HAWAII - ENDEMIC


 

Antennarius drombus

FRECKLED FROGFISH

 


INDO-PACIFIC / HAWAII

Antennarius commerson

COMMERSON'S or GIANT FROGFISH

 

Antennarius pictus

PAINTED FROGFISH

 

Antennarius maculatus

WARTY FROGFISH

 

Antennatus tuberosus

RETICULATED FROGFISH

 

Antennarius striatus

STRIATED FROGFISH

 

Antennatus linearis

LINED FROGFISH