Description

Also known as Australian Frogfish, Banded Frogfish, Banded Toadfish, Barbells, Bastard Stonefish, Devilfish, Frogfish, Northern Frogfish, Stonefish.

Found singly, in caves and crevices, over sheltered muddy waters, often concealed in debris and mud waiting for its prey, in estuaries, mangrove swamps and coastal reefs. Variable in colour to match their surroundings.
They feed on crustaceans, echinoderms, small fish and molluscs.
Juveniles sometimes go through a white phase.
Length - 27cm
Depth - 0-20m
Widespread Indo-West Pacific

Toadfish can make a load croaking noise with their swim bladders. They breathe air when out of water for up to 24hrs. Their mouth can open and expand to the width of their bodies to engulf large prey. Has poisonous spines. Ref: https://www.fishbase.de/summary/10748