Frogfishes

Frogfishes, also known as anglerfishes, are members of the family Antennariidae and are part of the order Lophiiformes. These unique fish are found in tropical and subtropical oceans and seas around the world, with the Mediterranean Sea being the only exception. They are small, short, and stocky in appearance, and are often covered in spinules and other appendages that aid in camouflage. The camouflage helps them to blend in with their surroundings, providing protection from predators and enabling them to lure prey. Many species of frogfishes can change color, and some are even covered with organisms such as algae or hydrozoa, further enhancing their camouflage. In keeping with this stealthy behavior, frogfishes typically move slowly, lying in wait for prey, and then striking rapidly in as little as 6 milliseconds.