Frogfish mostly inhabit the sea-floor among coral reefs, sea-grasses, rocks, and other substrates they can camouflage themselves against.
These fish can blend into their surroundings by changing color within a few minutes or over several days.
Their first dorsal spine works like a fishing rod tipped with a fleshy lure, hanging above the mouth to attract prey. They can open their mouths to at least 12 times the normal size to engulf large prey.
Juveniles can be less than 1 cm long, almost the size of a thumb-nail, while adults reach lengths of up to 38 cm (15 inches).
Frogfish literally “walk” around on their elbow-like pectoral fins, which look like feet with toes.
Matthew Oldfield is a freelance photographer based in Bali, Indonesia, specializing in editorial and documentary images from both above and below the waves. He works primarily with charities, NGO’s, and other organizations working to conserve the environment, endangered species, and disappearing cultures.
Matthew is on Twitter @matthewoldfield. More of his photos can be found at matthew-oldfield-photography.com
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