Shaggy Anglerfish

The Shaggy Anglerfish (Antennarius hispidus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its unique shaggy, hair-like appendages covering the body, mottled coloration that provides excellent camouflage, and its characteristic angling lure used to attract prey.

Males typically are much smaller and rarely kept in aquariums, while females/juveniles are larger and display the full shaggy texture and coloration that helps them blend seamlessly with surrounding rocks and corals. They reach about 5–6 inches and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons.

Provide ample live rock and hiding spots to mimic their natural ambush environment, with some open swimming space, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020-1.025, temp ~72-79°F, pH ~8.1-8.4). A secure lid is necessary since this species is prone to jumping.

Diet should consist of live or frozen meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, small crustaceans, and silversides. With proper care, this fish makes a standout addition to the aquarium due to its fascinating appearance and ambush hunting strategy.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.