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Frogfish are among the ocean's most accomplished ambush hunters — they change colour to match their sponge host in under two weeks, lure prey with a modified dorsal spine, and strike faster than almost any other vertebrate. Anilao is one of the best places on Earth to find multiple species on a single dive.
Species Found in Anilao
- Hairy frogfish (Antennarius striatus) — The most requested find. Covered in skin appendages that perfectly mimic algae-covered rubble. Found at 6–25 m, most commonly at Secret Bay.
- Painted frogfish (Antennarius pictus) — Variable colouration from white to yellow to black. Sits on sponges of matching colour.
- Giant frogfish (Antennarius commerson) — Largest species, up to 38 cm. Often mistaken for a sponge at first glance.
- Warty frogfish (Antennarius maculatus) — Covered in white-tipped warts; one of the most visually striking in the genus.
How to Spot Them
Scan sponges methodically — frogfish almost always sit directly on a host sponge of their matching colour. Look for the giveaway features: pectoral "arms" planted on the substrate, a small mouth with slightly upturned corners, and the esca (lure) occasionally twitched above the head. Once you have found one frogfish on a site, the same individual typically stays within 2 metres of the same spot for weeks.
Tip: Ask your guide to mark confirmed frogfish sightings on the site map at our dive desk. We maintain an active log of individual animals and their locations, updated after every dive.
Photography
Frogfish are slow and tolerant of close approach — ideal macro subjects. Shoot from directly in front at eye level, use a single strobe placed slightly above to avoid harsh shadows in the skin texture, and leave the scene unhurried. Never use a pointer stick to encourage movement; disturbed frogfish simply close their eyes and refuse to cooperate.