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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

Antennarius striatus

STRIATED FROGFISH

 

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

 

Antennatus linearis

LINED FROGFISH