SMOOTH ANGLERFISH
Ambush Predator
Anglerfishes rely on camouflage and their fishing lure to attract unsuspecting prey which is rapidly engulfed.
While this particular smooth angler is grey, the species can vary highly in both colour and pattern.
The small, darker coloured, fleshy enlargement located in between the fish’s eyes, is known as an esca and used as a lure. This appendage resembles an amphipod on which sand gobies feed (which makes up the anglerfishes preferred meal).
Found only in the temperate waters along the Great Southern Reef of Australia, Smooth Anglerfish often take residence under town jetties and shallow rocky reefs. These fish rarely swim, preferring to clamber over the bottom on their arm-like pelvic and pectoral fins. This anglerfish was spotted on the Yorke Peninsula - hiding away at Port Hughes.
Fast Facts:
Species: Phyllophryne scortea
Family: Antennariidae (Frogfish)
Phylum: Chordata
Feeding: Ambush Predator
Habitat: Benthic, Rocky Reef, Jetties
Distribution: Endemic to GSR
Special Powers: Fishing lure and camouflage
