Fin's Fish Guide
The Reticulated toadfish (Daector reticulata) is a saltwater fish of the family Batrachoididae that grows up to 27 cm.
Description
The reticulate toadfish is a toadfish of the family Batrachoididae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 27 cm and has a stocky body with a broad, flat head, a large mouth and a net-like pattern. It inhabits shallow coastal waters over soft bottoms. As a bottom ambush predator it often lies hidden and seizes small fishes and crustaceans. Both the gill-cover and dorsal spines bear venom glands; a sting gives a painful wound, so handle the fish with care. Owing to a restricted range the species is listed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Reticulated toadfish?
The Reticulated toadfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Net-like markings and venom glands on the opercular and dorsal fin spines; vulnerable (VU) toadfish.
Where does the Reticulated toadfish live?
The Reticulated toadfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; shallow coastal waters over soft bottoms.
How big does the Reticulated toadfish get?
The Reticulated toadfish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Reticulated toadfish dangerous to humans?
The Reticulated toadfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Reticulated toadfish edible?
The Reticulated toadfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Daector
More from the family Batrachoididae
Want the complete picture on the Reticulated toadfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Reticulated toadfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.