Batrachomoeus dubius
# Batrachomoeus dubius

The eastern frogfish (Batrachomoeus dubius) is a bottom-dwelling fish endemic to coastal eastern Australia, from Fraser Island, Queensland to Kiama, New South Wales. It is an ambush predator with a large expandable stomach, capable of swallowing crustaceans, molluscs and other fishes whole.

## Habitat

The fish is found at depths of 1–150 m along the continental shelf but also estuaries and inshore reefs. Rarely seen in the open, they shelter on rocky reefs and among seaweed or under rocks and in underwater caves.

## Morphology

The eastern frogfish has a flattened head with a wide mouth surrounded by a distinct fleshy 'beard'. Its colour varies from mottled brown to pale grey or bluish-grey, with two broad bands and scattered splotches along the body. Juveniles are paler with broad bands. They reach a maximum length of 35 cm.

