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Family Batrachoididae: Nineteen genera, about 69 species. Fresh, brackish and marine, things this family of fishes have in common is their not-so-good looks, reclusive bottom-dwelling nature, and territorial gruffness. Some species of this family are actually drop-dead gorgeous, though unfortunately rarely seen in the aquarium interest. The one that is (see below) often offered under various merchandising monikers, is of a percentage of Toadfishes that are venomous. The dorsal, anal, pectoral fin spines are hollow and have a painful (though less serious than true Lionfishes, Stonefish) venom associated with them. Be careful when in their tanks, netting them. Range: Coastal in Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Oceans, venturing into freshwater. Species of Interest/Use to Aquarists: Genus Batrachoides:
Genus Batrachomoeus:
Genus Opsanus:
Genus Sanopus:
Behavior: Noise production. Called Toadfishes on a few counts. Their squatty profile, large mouths, capacious appetites, and "croaking" noise they make! Bibliography/Further Reading: Quinn, John R. 1975. The Toadfish (or stout-hearted defender of house and home). Marine Aquarist 6(2):75. |
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