Frogfish
NameFrogfish
Scientific NameThymichthys politus
Common NamesRed Handfish, Warty Handfish, Tasmanian Handfish
FamilyBrachionichthyidae
OriginTasmania, Australia
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)30
Max Size (Inches)4.7
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)50-60
pH Range8.0-8.4
Description
This image features a Red Handfish (*Thymichthys politus*), a critically endangered marine species native to the cold waters off Tasmania. While the term 'Frogfish' is sometimes broadly applied to anglerfish, this particular species belongs to the Handfish family (Brachionichthyidae). It is renowned for using its modified, hand-like pectoral fins to 'walk' along the seafloor, camouflaging itself to ambush small crustaceans and fish.
