Identification
The body is short and deep, with a large mouth. A bulbous lure bears small filaments and resembles a tiny shrimp. Bands often radiate from the eye. The dark dorsal-base spot, lure structure and overall anatomy should be considered together when separating similar frogfishes.
Habitat and Depth
The species has Indo-Pacific and eastern Atlantic records. Indo-Pacific observations include shallow lagoon and seaward reefs, while eastern Atlantic collections are generally deeper. Combining those records into one preferred depth would hide a substantial regional difference.
Feeding and Reproduction
This sedentary carnivore brings prey close by moving its lure in front of the mouth. It lays eggs bound together in a gelatinous, ribbon-like raft. Remaining still and blending with the surroundings are central to its feeding strategy, unlike a predator that continuously chases fish through open water.
Color Alone Can Mislead
Yellow, red, brown and black individuals can belong to the same species. Look for the dorsal-base spot and lure details before relying on color.
All Lakes With Coin-bearing Frogfish
Browse all lakes and reservoirs with confirmed Coin-bearing Frogfish records in our database, listed alphabetically.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.