The Three-spined frogfish (Batrachomoeus trispinosus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Batrachoididae that grows up to 31 cm.
Description
The three-spined frogfish is a toadfish (Batrachoididae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a stocky, broad-headed, brown-mottled body with skin flaps, strongly camouflaged on the bottom. As an ambush predator it lies motionless on sand and mud bottoms and in burrows and engulfs passing prey; males make humming calls. The dorsal and gill-cover spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Three-spined frogfish?
The Three-spined frogfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the Three-spined frogfish live?
The Three-spined frogfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Three-spined frogfish get?
The Three-spined frogfish grows to a maximum of about 31 cm.
Is the Three-spined frogfish dangerous to humans?
The Three-spined frogfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
Is the Three-spined frogfish edible?
Yes, the Three-spined frogfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Batrachomoeus
More from the family Batrachoididae
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