Roughjaw Frogfish
Fowlerichthys avalonis
Adult
Family: Frogfishes (Antennariidae)
Size: Up to 35 cm (14 in) | Common: 15 cm
Depth: 1 – 100m (3 – 330ft)
Distribution: Eastern Pacific (California to Peru).
Identification:
The “Rugged” cousin of the frogfish family.
- Texture: The key identifier is the skin. Unlike the smoother Sanguine Frogfish, the Roughjaw is covered in tiny, prickle-like spines (bifid spinules) that give it a sandpaper-like or “scabby” texture.
- Markings: They are typically pink, red, or brown. Most adults have a distinct black spot (ocellus) surrounded by a thin orange ring on the dorsal fin, looking like a fake eye.
Behavior:
A solitary ambush predator.
- Habitat: They prefer rocky reefs and ledges where their rough texture helps them blend into encrusting algae and sponges.
- Hunting: Like all frogfish, they possess a lure (illicium) to attract prey, but the Roughjaw’s lure is shorter and thicker than other species.
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Behind the Lens
Jalvan
Underwater Photographer & Instructor
Documenting unique marine biodiversity from the Red Sea across the Pacific Ocean. Dedicated to creating a visual catalog of Bahia Solano’s marine life for conservation and research.
Video: Osmo Action 5 Pro | GoPro
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REFERENCES & DATA SOURCES
- Scientific ID: Verified via FishBase.
- Field Guide: Reef Fish Identification: Baja to Panama (Humann & DeLoach).
- Regional Data: Ankla Azul Marine Observation Log (Bahia Solano).
More Than Kicking Your Fins
At Ankla Azul, diving is more than kicking your fins. It’s patient teaching, sharp safety, and real care for the place we call home. As an SSI Instructor Training Center and an SSI Blue Oceans Center (2025 award), we blend skill-building with ocean awareness—Fish ID, coral nursery work, community education, and rescue support—so every dive grows confidence and respect for Bahía Solano’s wild Pacific.