Frogfish (Anglers)

[seabass]

Frogfish, a.k.a. Anglers

Frogfish are commonly referred to as Anglers.  While not for beginners, they are relatively hardy and can adapt to life in captivity (even within a large nano tank).  Anglers are relatively good reef dwellers and like to perch on coral ledges.  In the wild, they feed on unsuspecting crustaceans or smaller fish by swallowing their prey whole.  These fish possess a modified spine called an illicium, which suspends a lure-like appendage in front of its mouth, called the esca.  Note that aggressive triggers or puffers have been known to eat a Frogfish's illicium.

 

Frogfish should be fed live marine feeder shrimp and fish (small Frogfish can be offered live mysis shrimp).  However, do not overfeed, as that could cause the Angler to stop feeding.  You may be able to patiently train your Frogfish to eat meaty chunks of seafood (like shrimp and scallops) offered on a feeding stick by occasionally wiggling the food in front of it.

 

Wartskin Angler (Antennarius maculatus)

Max Size: 6"

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Care level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Reef Compatible: With Caution

Origin: Indonesia

 

Sargassum Fish (Histrio histrio)

Max Size: 6"

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Care level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Reef Compatible: With caution

Origin: Indian Ocean

 

Assorted Angler (Antennarius sp.)

Max Size: 6 to 9"

Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons

Care level: Moderate

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Reef Compatible: With caution

Origin: Indonesia

 

Striated Angler (Antennarius striatus)

Max Size: 8.5"

Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons

Care level: Easy

Temperament: Peaceful

Reef Compatible: With Caution

Origin: South China Sea, Sri Lanka

 

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Edited July 22, 2021 by seabass

[M. Tournesol]

Some year ago, I did read that frogfishes generally didn't pass the 2 years mark. 

Is this information still true?

Edited July 19, 2021 by M. Tournesol
Edited after new information was found on the internet.

[seabass]

I believe that fatty liver disease is a common problem.  Feeding freshwater feeder fish is not recommended.  I'm not exactly sure if that's what you are referring to.  I'd be interested in any additional information you could find on the topic of longevity.

[M. Tournesol]

Up to 20 in the wild.

On forum, 2 years seems to be a good live spam. Some speak of 5 years (https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/a-couple-questions-about-angler-frogfish.260841/).

"Am aware of some very long term success in public institutions... 15-20 years" was say on this link in 2012 http://wetwebmedia.com/anglerfdgfaqs.htm.

 

Hope it change in the coming years 😑. The fish is on my dream species only tanks after a clownfishes harem.