top of page

Masters of camouflage and ambush

Frogfish!

Lembeh Critters Pair of Painted Frogfish

Pair of Painted Frogfish.  Frogfish are masters of disguise and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Let's investigate into the intriguing lives of these fascinating fish and discover the different types of frogfish and some fun facts about them!

Hairy Frogfish, Antennarius striatus

Lembeh Critters Hairy Frogfish

The hairy frogfish is perhaps the most iconic member of the family, known for its body covered in hair-like spinules. This feature helps it blend seamlessly with its surroundings, such as algae and coral, making it a formidable ambush predator.

Painted Frogfish, Antennarius pictus

Lembeh Critters Painted Frogfish

With its vibrant and diverse coloration, the painted frogfish is a true chameleon of the sea. These fish can change their color to match their environment, ranging from bright yellows and oranges to more subdued browns and greens.

Giant Frogfish, Antennarius commerson

Frogfish Giant Perching on Sponge

As the name suggests, the giant frogfish is one of the largest species, growing up to 15 inches in length. Despite their size, they remain masters of camouflage, often resembling sponges or rocks.

Warty Frogfish, Antennarius maculatus

Frogfish Warty White.jpg

The warty frogfish, also known as the clown frogfish, sports a bumpy, textured skin that helps it blend in with its surroundings. Their vivid coloration and distinctive patterns make them a favorite among underwater photographers.

Fun Facts About Frogfish

Painted Frogfish yawning

Yawning.  Frogfish have a peculiar habit of yawning, which might seem like they're bored, but it's actually a way for them to stretch their jaw muscles as their method of hunting requires that the jaw moves with lightning speed!

The Painted Frogfish using its lure

Lure.  One fascinating feature of frogfish is their lure, known as an esca. This lure mimics the appearance of a small prey item, such as a worm or a shrimp, to attract unsuspecting victims right into the frogfish's mouth.

Warty Frogfish well camouflaged

Camouflage.  Frogfish are masters of disguise. They can change their color and texture to blend into their surroundings, making them nearly invisible to both predators and prey.

Giant Frogfish exercises its jaw for lightning fast strike

Lightning fast strike!  If you think of frogfish as slow-mo, you are hugely mistaken!  Despite their sedentary appearance, frogfish are incredibly fast when it comes to capturing prey. They can strike in as little as 6 milliseconds, making them one of the fastest predators in the ocean.  The yawn, in reality, is an act to flex the jaw muscle so that when the frogfish needs to open it wide with lightning speed it could!  The prey will literally get sucked in by a giant gush of water flowing into the frogfish's mouth!

K2 Lembeh Dive Resort

We are a boutique resort in Lembeh. 

​

We offer traditional Minahasa-style villas with modern amenities (hot water bath, air-cond), panoramic views of the Lembeh Strait.

 

Our expert dive guides specialize in muck diving, providing unique underwater experiences for photographers.

 

We caters to a limited number of guests, ensuring a cozy and exclusive stay.

​

We contribute a portion of its earnings to support local community education.

bottom of page