🐠 Striated Frogfish (Antennarius striatus)
Ambush Predator • Reef Camo Hunter • Marine Oddity • Display Species
 
📋 The Striated Frogfish (Antennarius striatus), also known as the Hairy Frogfish, is a master of disguise and one of the ocean’s most bizarre hunters. Its body is covered in hair-like appendages (dermal spinules) that allow it to mimic sponges, algae, or coral debris.
This remarkable ambush predator uses a modified dorsal spine as a lure (illicium) to attract prey — striking with one of the fastest recorded feeding reflexes in the animal kingdom. Despite its predatory prowess, it moves by “walking” along the substrate using its pectoral fins, giving it an almost comical yet captivating appearance.
The Striated Frogfish is perfect for species-only aquariums or predator displays, where its camouflage, colors, and unique behavior can be admired up close.
 
💡 Highlights
✨ Unique appearance: hair-like texture and variable coloration
⚪ Lightning-fast strike: feeds faster than a camera shutter
📏 Larger species: grows up to 20 cm (8")
✅ Ideal display fish: fascinating for species or macro tanks
🐠 Rare collector’s species: prized for photography and marine displays