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Gone Fishing
Observations on the Luring Behavior of Frogfishes

Frogfishes have a modified first dorsal spine that is used to attract their prey. In this article we explore how frogfishes use this apparatus. Photo by Scott W. Michael

There is very little information available on how frogfishes employ their "fishing tackle" (i.e., illicium and esca) in the wild. Pietsch and Grobecker (1986) give information on the orientation of striated frogfish (Antennarius striatus) in relation to current direction. They found that seven out of ten individuals observed in Sydney Harbour had their strike zones directed downstream. They conclude that they do this because the lure of A. striatus emits a chemical attractant that may help to lure prey within striking range. Other than these observations, which did not actually describe luring in the wild, little information has been published on in-situ luring or prey capture in frogfishes. This is partially due to the fact that these fishes are not common in reef habitats in most locations. However, there is at least one place where these fishes are regularly encountered.

Lembeh Strait, North Sulawesi is well-known for its rich frogfish communities, with nine species having been reported from this area. At some of the dive sites it is not unusual to see several frogfishes on a single dive (at least during certain times of the year). On our last trip there (October, 2000) we observed over 40 individual frogfishes, while on a trip several years earlier we saw over 30 individuals. During our most recent trip, we also had the good fortune of observing a number of frogfishes luring and feeding.

In this Coral Realm research report we will provide notes from our observation log on these hunting events, as well as information gleaned from other trips and aquarium observations. This includes photographic and video documentation of antennariid luring in the field.

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