Sargassum Frogfish (Histrio histrio)
Fish in the family Antennariidae. Expert care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
A small, stocky frogfish (family Antennariidae) with a rounded body covered in wart-like tubercles. Coloration varies from yellow to tan to brown, often with darker markings and spots, allowing camouflage in sargassum. The characteristic pectoral fins are arm-like and used for "walking" across surfaces, and a modified dorsal spine functions as a fishing lure (illicium).
Diet and feeding
In captivity, feed small live copepods, amphipods, and other tiny crustaceans. Juveniles require rotifers and newly hatched brine shrimp. Some individuals may eventually accept small frozen foods or mysis shrimp, but live foods are strongly preferred and essential for newly captured specimens.
Difficulty and care for the Sargassum Frogfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Starvation, bacterial infection, parasites, poor adaptation to captive diet
Origin and habitat
Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, found in sargassum mats and floating vegetation in tropical and subtropical waters. Known from the western Atlantic (Gulf of Mexico to Brazil), eastern Atlantic (West Africa), Indo-Pacific, and western Mediterranean.
Log Sargassum Frogfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Sargassum Frogfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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