Scarlet Frogfish (Antennarius coccineus) Care Guide
Antennarius coccineus, the scarlet frogfish, is a small, secretive Indo-Pacific ambush predator now placed by FishBase in the genus Abantennarius.
Overview
Antennarius coccineus, the scarlet frogfish, is a small benthic marine fish of the family Antennariidae. FishBase currently lists this species under the accepted name Abantennarius coccineus (Lesson, 1831). It is a secretive, variable-coloured ambush predator widespread in the Indo-Pacific.
Taxonomy
- Family: Antennariidae
- Genus: Antennarius
- Scientific name: Antennarius coccineus
- Currently accepted name (FishBase): Abantennarius coccineus (Lesson, 1831)
Habitat
FishBase records the species across the Indo-East Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the easternmost islands of the Pacific Plate, including the Desventuradas Islands. It is reef-associated, occurring in tide pools as well as lagoon and seaward reefs, where it stays secretive among rocks and sponges. Reported depths range from 10 to 75 m, typically less than 30 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- GH: 8-12 °dGH
- Adult size: 8-13 cm (FishBase reports a maximum of 13 cm TL)
- Lifespan: 5-20 years
Diet
The scarlet frogfish is a carnivore that feeds on small fishes, according to FishBase. Like other frogfish it is an ambush predator. In aquaria it is typically fed live or thawed meaty foods such as silversides.
Compatibility
This is a solitary, bottom-dwelling species best kept alone or only with conspecifics of similar size. Smaller fish and ornamental shrimp would be eaten and should not be kept with it.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2021), as reported by FishBase.