Frogfish

A peculiar anglerfish species that excels in mimicry and concealment is the frogfish. Frogfishes move occasionally, but when they do, they move virtually like frogs by pushing off with their two legs. This unusual fish can use its ribs to move forward in open water while forcing its open gills, which are located behind its pelvic region, to breathe.

Any fish classified as a frogfish belongs to the Lophiiformes order's Antennariidae family of anglerfish. In Australia, members of the unrelated family Batrachoididae are referred to as "frogfish," but antennariids are known as anglerfish there. With the exception of the Mediterranean Sea, frogfish are present in practically all tropical and subtropical oceans and seas.

Small, short, and stocky, frogfishes occasionally have spinules and other appendages to help them blend with their surroundings. They can use camouflage to entice prey and protect themselves from predators. Many species have the ability to change color, and some have other life forms like algae or hydrozoa covering them. Frogfishes normally move slowly while waiting for prey before striking extremely quickly—in as little as 6 milliseconds—to maintain their camouflage.