New Zealand Monkfish
NameNew Zealand Monkfish
Scientific NameKathetostoma giganteum
Common NamesNew Zealand Monkfish, Giant Stargazer, Monkfish
FamilyUranoscopidae
OriginSouthwest Pacific Ocean, New Zealand
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)300
Max Size (Inches)35.4
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)50-65
pH Range8.1-8.4
Description
The New Zealand Monkfish, also known as the Giant Stargazer, is a large, bottom-dwelling marine fish native to the waters around New Zealand. It is an ambush predator, burying itself in sand or mud with only its eyes and mouth exposed, waiting for prey. This species requires a very large, specialized aquarium setup due to its size and predatory nature.
