Wartskin Frogfish

The Wartskin Frogfish, *Antennarius maculatus*, is a master of camouflage, blending seamlessly into its surroundings with its bumpy, wart-like skin and variable coloration that can range from vibrant reds and yellows to muted browns and greens. Its most distinctive feature is the modified dorsal spine, called an illicium, which it uses as a fishing lure to attract unsuspecting prey.

A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a single Wartskin Frogfish, with plenty of live rock and hiding places to mimic its natural habitat. Due to its predatory nature, it should not be housed with small fish or invertebrates that it could consume. It is a sedentary fish and does not require a large swimming area.

The Wartskin Frogfish is a carnivorous ambush predator. Its diet in the aquarium should consist of live or frozen meaty foods such as feeder fish (used sparingly), shrimp, and squid. It may need to be target-fed initially until it recognizes prepared foods.

This species is not typically bred in captivity and there are no readily apparent visual differences between males and females.