Fin's Fish Guide
The Western frogfish toadfish (Batrachomoeus occidentalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Batrachoididae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The western frogfish toadfish is a toadfish (Batrachoididae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of western Australia. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a stocky body with a large, broad head, a wide mouth with fleshy flaps and high-set eyes. As a bottom-dweller it shelters in burrows, crevices and under stones and snaps from ambush at crustaceans, molluscs and small fish; males make a humming courtship sound. The sharp dorsal and gill-cover spines can give a puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Western frogfish toadfish?
The Western frogfish toadfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Western frogfish toadfish live?
The Western frogfish toadfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Western frogfish toadfish get?
The Western frogfish toadfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Western frogfish toadfish dangerous to humans?
The Western frogfish toadfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp head or fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Western frogfish toadfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Western frogfish toadfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.